Las Vegas Raiders’ recent OTA practice saw a scenario not many have been taking into account regarding a big position battle
The Las Vegas Raiders have many position battles going on during OTAs, mandatory minicamp, and training camp.
One of the biggest storylines to watch this offseason for the Las Vegas Raiders is the position battles that will take place on the offensive line. Those will happen all throughout the offseason, from OTAs to mandatory minicamp, and into training camp.
The left and right guard positions seem to be up for grabs. We think the right tackle position is, too. However, head coach Klint Kubiak has said he loves the stability there, and he’s a big fan of DJ Glaze, so who knows. The guard positions—one seems to be Jackson Powers-Johnson’s to lose, but he can never stay healthy, while the other one is a mix of Spencer Burford, Caleb Rogers, Jordan Meredith, and Trey Zuhn. Yes, Meredith is in the running, as his 2024 season at OG was impressive.
Most people seem to be penciling in Rogers or Zuhn as the starter. And, rightfully so, those guys have some potential. However, no one is mentioning that Burford could be the guy. At practice this week, there was one starting unit that involved Burford. Per Sam Warren of The Athletic, Burford was penciled in with the starting unit from last season, with the addition of Tyler Linderbaum at center.
Spencer Burford brings experience that the other guards don’t
The Raiders signed former San Francisco 49ers offensive guard Spencer Burford, who has started 38 games. Burford could provide valuable depth for the Raiders, who have dealt with injuries on the offensive line. With 2,165 snaps compared to Rogers’ 284, he also appears capable as a starter.
Last season, Burford had 32 blown blocks per Sports Info Solutions: 211 in the pass game and 11 in the run game. He ranked 14th among all offensive guards, despite playing just 550 snaps—about half as many as others above him. At 25, Burford brings experience with Kubiak’s system, a low-cost one-year deal, and competition to a weak position group. This move could spark impact or simply strengthen depth.
Rogers showed impressive traits as a starter last season, while JPJ, a former second-round pick, possesses notable talent despite recurring injuries. Meredith struggled at center but was strong at guard in 2024. Compared to Burford, Rogers has less experience, JPJ offers more upside, and Meredith brings flexibility. This variety gives Vegas good depth. But someone has to be a starter.