The Las Vegas Raiders struggled in all three phases on Sunday against the Washington Commanders, resulting in a 41-24 loss for Vegas. While the offense and special teams deserve a majority of the blame, it was specifically the play from the offensive line that was most glaring.
It was a second straight distressing performance from the players up front on offense, as they struggled mightily in pass protection and run blocking. Ashton Jeanty and the running game have been rendered ineffective as a result, which is reflected in absurd stats like 101% of the No. 6 overall pick’s yards coming after contact.
From what has been put on tape the past two weeks, changes need to be made quickly for the Raiders to have any success in 2025. There’s talent on the roster, and improvement could come simply with better coaching and coaching decisions when constructing the starting five.
But the team is also reportedly looking toward free agency to improve their offensive line, according to Lincoln Kennedy on the Locked on Raiders Squad Show podcast:
“Right now, the Raiders don’t even have a true starting five, so how can they make changes? Go to whom? You want to try people off the street? I heard that’s probably what they’re going to be doing… bringing in a few free agents to try them.”
The Raiders’ only major move to address the position group in free agency was signing guard Alex Cappa to a two-year, $11.2 million contract with $5.5 million guaranteed.
There are pretty slim pickings when it comes to talent on the free agent market. Former first-round pick Jedrick Wills is the biggest name remaining unsigned, but he is rehabbing a lingering knee issue that limited him to just five games in 2024 and reportedly may choose not to play in 2025.
Outside of that, the Raiders will have to rely on their scouting department to potentially find some impact talent.
Rich Eisen calls for Raiders to unleash Ashton Jeanty
Longtime radio host Rich Eisen implored the Raiders to get Jeanty more involved in their game plan, if for no other reason than to take pressure off Smith when he drops back to pass.
The rookie has just 144 yards in three weeks, averaging 3.1 yards per carry. The Raiders also aren’t attempting many runs in general, ranking 22nd in rushing attempts.
For the team to find success, Jeanty needs to be a bigger part of the offense moving forward. But he needs better blocking to keep drives from getting knocked off schedule.
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