Right Side Renovation: Solving the Raiders RT Issue

With the news of the Raiders releasing Marshall Newhouse, a void suddenly opened up on the right side. Yet, RaiderNation should warmly embrace this void. While Newhouse provided quotes and soundbyte to local media, his play never rose above inconsistent. In the AFC West, each rival possesses a fierce pass rush. Average will not sustain a block or prevent a drive from stalling due to surrendering a sack. With that said, here are realistic options for the Raiders to consider.

Chukwuma Okorafor (Western Michigan)

Granted, Okorafor may not possess the name recognition, what he does bring are heavy hands. Okorafor meets rushers with a solid, thumping punch that halts progress. At right tackle, Okorafor seems better suited to stay on that side. While his footwork is not elite, Okorafor is a quick study. Under Tom Cable, Okorafor can learn the pro game, stepping in on Day 1.

Brian O’Neill (Pitt)

In Seattle, Cable favored quicker tackles that moved well after the snap. If he continues that trend, O’Neill provides him just that. Despite weighing a shade less than 300 pounds, O’Neill meets rushers that venture wide in order to get to the quarterback. In fact, his burst off the snap can also help in the run game. As a result, Oakland could pick O’Neill, slot him on the right, and solve the problem.

The Coach

Provided that Tom Cable does not face-punch any assistants, his tenure in Oakland should be a departure from his predecessor. While Tice seemingly created ways to assert or grab power, Cable knows who the boss is and will not try Gruden. Additionally, Cable’s players, both line and skill position would follow him through a wall. As mentioned, Cable preferred athletic tackles that could run, handle stunts, loops, and twists. If the Seahawks gave him more to work with, he would still be there.

In Oakland, the emphasis on the right side will require Reggie McKenzie to spend a draft pick on an offensive lineman. If Oakland can grab either one of these or another sound tackle, that opens doors to employing a complete line.