After a relatively healthy preseason, the Oakland Raiders suffered their first major loss of 2015 as tackle Menelik Watson suffered what is believed to be a ruptured Achilles' tendon during the first quarter of Sunday night's game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Following his departure from the game, the former Florida State Seminole took to social media to share his diagnosis.
During his postgame press conference, Head Coach Jack Del Rio was asked about the loss of his presumed starting right tackle.
"Yeah, that was tough," said Head Coach Del Rio. "That was a tough break for us. Really unfortunate. He was having a great camp for us. He played well for us. Good young man. He'll bounce back but it's a big setback."
After a 2014 season that saw him appear in 12 games and make nine starts for the Silver and Black, the young lineman was playing well and running with the first team offensive line this preseason.
His injury now creates a dilemma on the right side of the offense line, and will require several players to step up in his absence.
Austin Howard was taking reps with the second-team offensive line this preseason and could slide into Watson's old job, and veteran swingman Khalif Barnes is another capable option at right tackle going forward.
Right guard J'Marcus Webb also has experience playing on the outside and could return to his old position if the situation warranted.
Head Coach Del Rio now has a quick turnaround to make a decision regarding Watson's replacement – at least in the interim, as the Raiders conclude the preseason Thursday night against the Seattle Seahawks.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. PT at CenturyLink Field.
To the #RaiderNation I love you so much. There is NO i mean NO fanbase like ours. thank you for all the support. pic.twitter.com/GfXEtPojMz — Menelik Watson (@MenelikWatson) August 31, 2015
