Silver And Black Pride
Returning Raider Nation’s questions for the week
It’s officially summer as the Las Vegas Raiders have some downtime after wrapping up OTAs and mandatory minicamp last week. Now we play the waiting game until training camp, but first, we’ve got this week’s mailbag to get to with a heavy focus on the Raiders’ roster.
Q: With Thayer Munford Jr. getting reps at guard and Dylan Parham missing time, do you believe it’s likely Parham doesn’t make the 53? (Possible trade)
A: I wouldn’t put any weight into Parham missing time during OTAs and minicamp, especially since he was healthy and on the field at the start of spring practices. Coaches are extra cautious this time of year, where if a guy just tweaks something, they’ll hold him out to make sure the minor injury doesn’t become significant. On top of that, there’s only so much offensive linemen can do without pads on, so it’s much smarter and safer to sideline a lineman who is a potential starter and a little nicked up.
That said, Munford getting reps at guard is interesting since Parham is already reportedly competing with Jordan Meredith for a starting spot. If Munford and Meredith play well enough in training camp, then there’s a chance Parham could get traded. However, I expect the four-year pro to be a Week 1 starter at one of the guard spots for the Raiders at this time.
Long story short, is it likely that Parham isn’t on the 53-man roster? No. Is it completely out of the question? Also, no.
Q: Will Christian Wilkins be ready? If not, besides Adam Butler, who starts on the opposite side to him?
A: It’s been reported that Wilkins will be ready by August, even after his recent setback. I know there’s a rumor floating around that he needs surgery again and could be out for the season, but that isn’t coming from someone I turn to for inside info. So, I’m not putting any weight into that rumor until someone like Vincent Bonsignore, Tashan Reed or Ryan McFadden confirms it.
For the second question, Reed reported that Leki Fotu was the Raiders’ second starting nose tackle this spring. I’d expect Fotu to get the start at nose or 1-technique in even fronts, and then Zach Carter or Tyree Wilson would likely be the other interior defensive lineman in odd fronts. Carter is a solid run defender who is getting the nod right now, presumptively, because he’s a veteran.
But I think the ideal situation for the organization is that one of the young guys steps up and becomes a starter this season: Wilson, Jonah Laulu, Tonka Hemingway or J.J. Pegues.
Q: Who do you think wins the cornerback one spot? Do you think it’s pretty up in the air right now?
A: The CB1 role is definitely up in the air, especially with Jakorian Bennett spending the majority of his time on the second-team defense during the spring. Granted, he’s easing his way back...
