Raiders Already Exploring Options to Replace Promising Rookie Lineman
The Las Vegas Raiders are making it clear that a new era has begun — one marked by doing things their way. After a disappointing season under head coach Antonio Pierce, owner Mark Davis initiated significant changes by bringing in veteran coach Pete Carroll and new general manager John Spytek to lead the franchise.
While their arrival signaled a fresh start, their approach this offseason has been somewhat unconventional. The Raiders made few moves in free agency, choosing instead to focus on building from within. They did acquire quarterback Geno Smith through a trade and extended star pass rusher Maxx Crosby, but they allowed multiple defensive starters to leave and avoided handing out any major contracts in the open market.
Carroll and Spytek have clearly emphasized a culture of competition over big-name spending. No player — regardless of performance or potential — is guaranteed a spot, and even promising young talent like offensive tackle DJ Glaze is being pushed to prove himself again.
Glaze, a third-round pick in last year’s draft, emerged as a surprise starter at right tackle and delivered solid performances throughout the season. However, according to The Athletic’s Vic Tafur, his position may already be under threat as the Raiders consider bringing in another offensive tackle in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Tafur noted that while this year’s draft isn’t loaded with elite offensive line talent, Spytek appeared enthusiastic when discussing the idea of drafting competition for Glaze. Potential prospects include Oregon’s Josh Conerly Jr., Purdue’s Marcus Mbow, Charles Grant from William & Mary, and Cameron Williams out of Texas. Though these players may not be top-10 selections, their presence would still create meaningful competition.
Furthermore, Tafur pointed out that the Raiders could use their No. 6 overall pick to draft a higher-profile lineman such as Missouri’s Armand Membou or LSU’s Will Campbell. Both are viewed as immediate-impact players who could threaten Glaze’s starting job from day one.
While it’s understandable for the front office to pursue upgrades, it’s also worth noting that Glaze showed promise and still has room to grow. He wasn’t elite in his rookie season, but he held his own and demonstrated the potential to develop into a long-term starter. Replacing him so soon could be seen as harsh, especially when he’s still in the early stages of his career.
Ultimately, the Raiders are moving forward with a clear philosophy: the best player will earn the job, regardless of past performances. Carroll and Spytek are committed to reshaping the team with a competitive mindset, and no one — not even a rookie starter from the previous year — is immune to that process.
Glaze may still have a future in Las Vegas, but if the team finds a stronger option, they won’t hesitate to make a move.
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