The revamped Raiders offensive line blends experienced veterans with emerging talent. With center Andre James back and other players such as Jermaine Eluemunor and Brandon Parker departing, there is an opportunity for heightened performance and increased competition compared to what has been seen in quite some time.

Entering the 2024 NFL Draft, many experts predicted the Raiders would go two ways with their 13th overall pick in the first round: quarterback or offensive tackle. With a glaring hole on the right side of the line, it was the perfect time to do so with an extremely deep draft class at guard and tackle. Names like Joe Alt, JC Latham, Troy Fautanu and Taliese Fuaga all figured to be in the mix. Instead, the Raiders surprised the world by taking one of the top five overall players in the draft, selecting tight end Brock Bowers from Georgia. Instead, general manager Tom Telesco waited until the second round to start acquiring young talent for the offensive trenches

The prize in the second round was Oregon’s center Jackson Powers-Johnson. Johnson was named the Rimington Trophy winner, the college game’s best center, and will almost certainly start at left guard for the Raiders. Not only has he played the position before, but his mauler style and ability to provide great pass and good run protection make him a grand slam of a pick. The Raiders were fortunate to get him in the second round, and while many believed he’d play at the right guard position, putting him next to the Raiders offensive line anchor Miller on the left side is something they’ve discussed publicly.

In the case of Peat, he played 715 snaps at left tackle for New Orleans in 2023 and 89 at left guard. With the possibility of Dylan Parham moving to the right guard position and Thayer Munford Jr., someone both Pierce and Telesco have spoken highly of this offseason at right tackle, Peat could be a swing player in 2024. His experience and presence undoubtedly will improve the line — especially if he regains his Pro Bowl form.

One sneaky, good, undrafted free agent on the offensive line the Raiders signed after the draft was TCU tackle Andrew Coker. Coker is considered a top offensive line draft pick entering the 2023 college football season, and he saw his stock fall due to injuries last year. Coker offers yet another option and depth should he win a roster spot for 2024.