Raiders Offensive Line Struggles Highlighted Amid Coaching Changes

The Las Vegas Raiders offensive line has been struggling significantly this season, especially following the hiring of Brennan Carroll as offensive line coach in February 2025. This marks Carroll's first opportunity to coach an NFL offensive line independently, after serving as the assistant offensive line coach for the Seattle Seahawks from 2015 to 2020, and as the offensive line coach and offensive coordinator at the University of Arizona followed by the Washington Huskies.

Under Carroll's guidance, the Raiders have made notable changes, including moving Jackson Powers-Johnson to guard and shifting Jordan Meredith to center, despite Meredith having no previous snaps at that position in his football career.

Powers-Johnson, a Remington Trophy winner and a first-team All-Rookie selection in 2024, was initially in competition with veteran Alex Cappa for the right guard position. However, Cappa had a rough season the previous year, allowing the most sacks, pressures, and hits among NFL offensive linemen.

The Raiders' offensive line issues became evident early in the season, as they struggled with run blocking and left numerous players unblocked on key assignments. The Raiders selected Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, a Heisman finalist, in the first round of the 2025 draft.

Despite Jeanty's individual success, ranking in the top five for elusiveness and yards after contact, a staggering 97% of his yards have come after contact, showing the offensive line's inefficiency. Injuries have further compounded the issues, with Kolton Miller sidelined since Week 4 and Powers-Johnson out for the remainder of the season.

Currently, the Raiders' offensive line ranks 31st in pass block win rate and sacks allowed per game, and they hold the league's worst pressure rate allowed. Over the last four games, the Raiders have allowed 128 pressures and 22 sacks, including a staggering 10 sacks and 44 pressures against the Cleveland Browns.

In that game, the coaching staff opted not to play either of their rookie offensive linemen, Caleb Rogers and Charles Grant, instead relying on struggling veterans. This decision raises questions about player development as the team has invested heavily in young talent, including a second-round pick and three third-round picks, along with over 20 million annually for Kolton Miller.

Following a blowout loss to the Browns, the Raiders fired offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, marking the second coordinator dismissal this season, a rare occurrence in the NFL since 2010. The tension surrounding the coaching staff is palpable, as reports indicate a breakdown in communication between head coach Pete Carroll and Kelly.

With only a 2-9 record, the Raiders find themselves at a crossroads, facing teams with high sack rates on their upcoming schedule, prompting concerns for the future of the franchise as they struggle to balance veteran play with the development of younger talent.