Raiders Mailbag: Can New LBs Flip the Defensive Script?
Raiders Guard Battle: Who’s Protecting the Quarterback? (Simple Guide)
The Big Question: Do the Raiders Have a Plan at Guard?
A fan named Jesse from California asked: "Do they have a plan at the guard spots?"
The short answer: Yes! But it’s still a work in progress. Think of it like a competition where the best players win the starting jobs.
Right Guard Battle: Powers-Johnson vs. Rogers
Two players are fighting for the starting right guard spot:
| Player | Status | What’s Happening |
|---|---|---|
| Jackson Powers-Johnson | Injured / Being Cautious | Left practice early Monday. Didn’t practice Tuesday. Coach says they’re being "careful" and "will keep evaluating." Unlikely to play Thursday’s game. |
| Caleb Rogers | Getting First-Team Reps | Since Powers-Johnson is out, Rogers is practicing with the starters. He did this in Tuesday’s joint practice too. |
IMPORTANT POINT
Powers-Johnson is not "hurt badly" — the team is just being extra careful with him right now. This is common in preseason.
What the Quarterback Says About Rogers
Kirk Cousins (the QB) had great things to say about Caleb Rogers:
- "He’s a great presence. He’s got a lot of dog to him."
(Translation: He’s tough, aggressive, and plays with attitude.) - "He’s a fighter, competitive, and wants to be a really good player."
- "That whole group up front is working really hard… great demeanor as a unit."
ELI5 Translation: The quarterback trusts Rogers. He thinks the whole offensive line (the big guys blocking for him) has the right mindset.
Left Guard: Burford Is the Front-Runner
At left guard, Spencer Burford is "in the driver’s seat" — meaning he’s the clear favorite to start.
Depth Chart: The Backup Plan
These players are next in line at both guard spots (left and right):
- Jordan Meredith
- Atonio Mafi
- Trey Zuhn III
Think of them as the "bench players" ready to step in if someone gets hurt or needs a break.
Step-by-Step: How the Raiders Decide Who Starts
- Practice Performance – Who blocks best, communicates, and makes fewest mistakes?
- Preseason Games – Real game speed reveals who’s ready.
- Health & Durability – Can they stay on the field? (Powers-Johnson’s caution matters here.)
- Chemistry with QB & Line – Do they "click" with Cousins and the other linemen?
- Coach Evaluation – Klint Kubiak (offensive coordinator) makes the final call.
Summary: What You Need to Know
- Right Guard: Battle ongoing. Powers-Johnson is day-to-day, cautious. Rogers is stepping up and impressing.
- Left Guard: Spencer Burford is the leader.
- Depth: Three solid backups (Meredith, Mafi, Zuhn) for both sides.
- Vibe Check: QB and coaches love the group’s effort and attitude.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
1. Why is Powers-Johnson sitting out if he’s not seriously hurt?
Teams are super careful in preseason. No need to risk a regular-season starter for a practice or exhibition game.
2. Does Rogers starting in practice mean he won the job?
Not yet. It means he’s getting a chance to prove it. The job is his to lose — but Powers-Johnson could still win it when healthy.
3. Who is Klint Kubiak?
He’s the Offensive Coordinator — the coach in charge of the offense. He decides who plays and calls the plays.
4. What does "joint practice" mean?
Two NFL teams practice together (Raiders + another team). It’s like a scrimmage but more controlled. Great for evaluating players vs. real opponents.
5. When will we know the final starters?
Usually right before the regular season starts (early September). Preseason games and practices decide it.
Final Thought: The Raiders have a plan — and it’s competition. The best players will play. Right now, Rogers is making noise, Burford is leading at left guard, and the depth looks strong. Stay tuned for Thursday’s game!