Las Vegas Raiders could be in a situation they found themselves in 2024, but they’re much more prepared this time
The Las Vegas Raiders have to feel confident in the depth they have on the offensive line, especially with Caleb Rogers and Jackson Powers-Johnson fighting for a starting spot.
The Las Vegas Raiders may have a training camp battle brewing that mirrors one of the most consequential position switches in recent franchise history. Two years ago, under then-head coach Antonio Pierce at training camp in Costa Mesa, California, offensive tackle Thayer Munford was the declared starter at right tackle.
Then Munford got injured on the first day of camp, and rookie third-round pick DJ Glaze stepped in. Glaze never came off the field. He started every game, stayed healthy, and held that spot through this offseason. Now, a similar scenario could be unfolding on the interior offensive line between guard Jackson Powers-Johnson and Caleb Rogers.
The right guard battle is wide open
The Raiders entered camp with legitimate depth at guard. Spencer Burford, Trey Zuhn, Jackson Powers-Johnson, Caleb Rogers, and even Jordan Meredith all have cases to start. Meredith had a strong 2024 season at guard before a rough 2025 campaign at center. The competition, though, has narrowed to two names at right guard: JPJ and Rogers.
When head coach Klint Kubiak was asked whether JPJ has the starting spot locked up, his answer was blunt. No, he doesn’t. Rogers has rotated in reps with the first-team offense throughout the past week of practice, and it remains a battle.
Then came the development that could tip the scales. A few days ago, JPJ missed practice with an injury. On Tuesday, he showed up in street clothes. Kubiak confirmed JPJ will not play in Thursday’s preseason game.
Rogers could seize the moment
That absence opens a window for Rogers to take first-team reps in practice and potentially during Thursday’s game. If the Glaze precedent taught the Raiders anything, it’s that opportunity plus performance equals a starting job.
Glaze wasn’t perfect. He led the team with 54 blown blocks last season, 14 more than any other Raiders offensive lineman. He still has room to grow. But he was available, durable, and consistent enough to hold the job for two full seasons. The Raiders value those traits, and Rogers has a chance to prove he checks the same boxes.
Fans don’t necessarily want to see JPJ lose the job. His rookie season at center was brilliant, and even last year, when healthy, he played well at guard. The problem is the “when healthy” qualifier. JPJ has dealt with a string of injuries, and durability matters when the coaching staff is evaluating who fits best.
What this means for the Raiders’ offensive line
The Raiders are looking for the player who fits, stays available, is versatile, and is consistent. If that player turns out to be Caleb Rogers, the coaching staff will not hesitate to make the switch. Las Vegas has been in this exact position before. Munford was supposed to start. Glaze took the job and never gave it back.
JPJ’s current injury and his absence from Thursday’s preseason game could mark the beginning of Rogers’ takeover at right guard. If Rogers performs well with the starters this week, the conversation shifts from “Who’s competing?” to “Who won?” Either way, the Raiders have the depth to weather the situation. The question is whether JPJ can get healthy and reclaim a spot that’s slipping further from his grasp with every missed practice.
