Rookie Guard Sparks Late-Season Hope (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Las Vegas – The Raiders’ offensive line endured widespread criticism throughout a 3-14 campaign in 2025, but the development of several young players provided a foundation for optimism heading into the offseason.[1]
Rookie Guard Sparks Late-Season Hope
Caleb Rogers emerged as a standout in the final weeks, transforming skepticism into excitement for Raiders fans. The third-round pick from the 2025 draft sat out the first 12 games, a decision he later credited for his preparation. He debuted with 17 snaps in a rotation against the Chargers in Week 13 before earning every snap over the last five contests.[1]
Rogers delivered clean performances, avoiding penalties and holding up against tough competition. His detailed note-taking and rapid improvement impressed veterans. “Caleb was put out there, and he answered the call,” left tackle Kolton Miller remarked. Rogers himself reflected on the process positively: “The timeline they had for me absolutely helped me.”[1]
Proven Talent and Depth Take Shape
Jackson Powers-Johnson showed flashes of dominance before an injury sidelined him, logging eight games with seven starts. The second-year interior lineman flashed spectacular blocks and adapted across guard and center roles. A healthy return could solidify the middle, especially with his mobility suiting upcoming schemes.[1][2]
Kolton Miller anchored the unit when healthy, playing just four games before a season-ending injury against the Bears. That matchup marked the line’s peak, paving the way for 240 rushing yards. Miller’s leadership proved vital; teammates described him as a “multiplier” whose absence amplified struggles. Charles Grant also progressed, bulking up and displaying power in run blocking after entering undersized.[1]
Overcoming Injuries and Systemic Hurdles
Injuries plagued the group, compounding issues from a complex offensive scheme under coordinator Chip Kelly. Quarterback Geno Smith absorbed 55 sacks, tied for the league lead, while rookie running back Ashton Jeanty topped 100 rushing yards only twice. The line coped without key blockers like tight end Brock Bowers, who battled his own ailments.[1]
Players-only meetings, encouraged by coaches, fostered accountability amid the chaos. Critics targeted position coach Brennan Carroll, but insiders highlighted growth in technique and mindset. Miller noted, “I know I got better this year,” crediting targeted coaching despite positional shifts and a new system.[1]
The unit ranked poorly in pass protection and run support, yet maintained professionalism through a development-focused year.
Rebuilding with Purpose
New head coach Klint Kubiak and line coach Rick Dennison inherit versatile pieces suited for an outside zone scheme. Rogers and Powers-Johnson offer interior flexibility, potentially at guard or center, while right tackle remains a priority alongside one more interior starter.[1]
- Caleb Rogers: Late bloomer with starter potential interior.
- Jackson Powers-Johnson: Versatile anchor post-injury.
- Kolton Miller: Veteran leader ready to return.
- Charles Grant: Raw athlete gaining strength.
Free agency and the draft will add elite talent, but the core exists. DJ Glaze could shift inside if needed.
Key Takeaways
- Young players like Rogers gained crucial reps late, building confidence.
- Injuries masked steady improvement in fundamentals.
- New staff eyes scheme fit to unlock mobility and intelligence.
The 2025 season tested the Raiders’ offensive line, but emerging talents like Rogers signal it’s far from barren. With health restored and reinforcements arriving, contention looms on the horizon. What steps should the Raiders prioritize this offseason? Share your thoughts in the comments.
