For years now, the Silver and Black have boasted one of the best units in the NFL. Now, according to Pro Football Focus, they're finally on top of the mountain.
Wednesday morning, Timo Riske of PFF revealed his offensive line rankings for the upcoming season, and the group of Kolton Miller, Richie Incognito, Rodney Hudson, Gabe Jackson, and Trent Brown are where they belong, at the top.
Anchored by Rodney Hudson — the best center in the NFL — the Raiders lead our rankings. The team hasn't lost a starter from their very good 2019 unit, and since continuity matters, that's enough of a reason for us to put them in the top spot. Their only weak link, left tackle Kolton Miller, improved significantly in 2019 and can be expected to further improve to some extent. If everything goes well, there should be no excuses for Derek Carr in 2020.
Several factors weigh into Riske's evaluation, the main ones being: Continuity, superb play and health. Keeping the franchise signal-caller will allow him to target a handful of new weapons, which could result in an explosive offense this season.
Last year's addition of Trent Brown made a noticeable difference on the right side, which Carr made sure to note throughout the season, saying it was his favorite free agent signing of the year.
Health was the biggest issue throughout 2019, as the starters rarely lined up together at the same time, but a well-rested offseason has the unit ready to dominate in their new stadium.
Take a look at what Raiders players were sharing on their social media channels for the month of June.
DE Carl Nassib: Pictures do not do this justice. I have wanted to see the Grand Canyon since I was a kid. It did not disappoint. It is the most magnificent and beautiful thing I've ever seen. America really is the greatest place in the world.
CB Damon Arnette: Blessed beyond belief. Thank you @gaudinford@ford for getting me right with the new whip!!!
OL Andre James: Gone Fishin 🎣
Thank you @klayoutdoors for taking us out on the river!
P AJ Cole: all moved into Las Vegas and got my @traegergrills fired up and grilling to perfection... raider nation how y'all like your steaks?
DT Maliek Collins: "Anything that stops growing is dead" 🌵🌻💧
DE Maxx Crosby: "Turned That Pain Into Passion & Made It Happen...Shoutout To The Ones Who Doubtin Me, They Keep Me Laughin"
@polo.capalot
WR Bryan Edwards: Back on my Grizzy ❗️
WR Rico Gafford: ☠️
DT P.J. Hall: Time For Us To Make A Change!!!! #SayHisName#GeorgeFloyd✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿
FB Alec Ingold: Constantly crafting
CB Isaiah Johnson: Certified big stepper, ain't checking for no approval ✔️
WR De'Mornay Pierson-El: Action 🎬
WR Hunter Renfrow: Thanks for hooking me up @gaudinford for this upcoming season! Looking forward to making Las Vegas my new home!
WR Henry Ruggs III: Had to run it back with @maverickhelicopters 🚁 🚁 !!
T David Sharpe: Nothing Lasts Forever But Atleast We Got These Memories ‼️
TE Jason Witten: Together Is The Way. Proud to be a Vegas Raider and a Member of this Community.
#BestIsNeeded
