With the preseason half done, the time to assess the roster approaches. As a result, the Raiders will need to find out which players will make the fifty-three.
Quarterback
Derek Carr
Nathan Peterman
If you believe in prayer, keep a good thought for Carr’s heath. The Raiders need their franchise quarterback to remain healthy and effective. Behind him, Peterman should get the nod over Mike Glennon. While neither presents a scintilla of hope, at least Peterman appears mobile.
Running Back
Josh Jacobs
Doug Martin
Jalen Richard
DeAndre Washington
Despite limited touches during the preseason, The Raiders think they appear to have their lead back in Jacobs. Doug Martin returns to serve as the mentor/backup. Meanwhile, Jalen Richard should serve as the main pass catcher. Gruden trusts Richard to make sound decisions. Meanwhile, DeAndre Washington could do enough to snag the last running back spot.
Fullback
Alec Ingold
Despite Rich Bisaccia’s probable insistence, the Raiders should choose the undrafted rookie from Wisconsin. Ingold provides them a better blocker, sharper receiver and the ability to carry in short yardage.
Wide Receiver
Antonio Brown
Tyrell Williams
Hunter Renfrow
Keelan Doss
JJ Nelson
Dwayne Harris (KR)
When he finds the proper helmet and his feet heal, Brown will combine with Williams to give Carr a threat. Further, down the depth chart, rookies Renfrow and Doss give the Raiders surehanded targets that can attack the intermediate areas of the field. More importantly, Carr will enjoy a deep wideout rotation. JJ Nelson holds a spot, based on speed alone. He will stretch the defense.
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Tight Ends
Darren Waller
Foster Moreau
Derek Carrier
In Waller, the Raiders envision a seam-busting threat that defenses need to account for. Moreau, the rookie from LSU serves as a versatile option. Derek Carrier will jump in for power sets and excel on special teams.
Offensive Linemen
Trent Brown
Kolton Miller
Richie Incognito
Rodney Hudson
Gabe Jackson
David Sharpe
Brandon Parker
Jordan Devey
Denzelle Good
While the two starting guards need to get back on the field, the rest of the group actually possesses potential. Bookending Kolton Miller with Trent Brown, finally stabilizes the tackle position. Remember, many saw Austin Howard as a solution. Now, the Raiders can protect their quarterback. More importantly, the best center in the game still controls the middle. Rodney Hudson prevents interior heat from finding Derek Carr. If you look at the backups, talent like Denver Kirkland and Brandon Parker could surprise and fill in for established veterans.
In essence, the Raiders should field a competent offense. Yet, how will they fare with so many new parts, under pressure? Brown and Williams give Oakland a shot at offensive production.
