Las Vegas Raiders offensive tackle Thayer Munford Jr. established himself as a frequent contributor on the Raiders' offensive line this season.
The 2022 seventh-round pick found himself in a position battle with fellow offensive tackle Jermaine Eluemunor for the right tackle position back in training camp. After the two each started in Week 1 against the Denver Broncos, Eluemunor would go on to earn the starting job for the next four games.
From there, the tide shifted, as Munford started in Week 6, Week 7, and Week 8. Munford then missed Week 9 with a neck injury.
The 24-year-old offensive tackle's role then became as crucial as it had ever been when captain Kolton Miller missed the next two games with a shoulder injury. Munford stepped up to the occasion, making starts against the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins.
Miller was back for Week 12 but then missed back-to-back contests yet again due to his shoulder injury. Munford would start those two games, as well as the following two games, as Miller's reps were limited. He then missed the final game of the season after dealing with a knee injury and an illness in the week leading up.
In total, Munford made 10 starts in his 15 appearances after starting five games in his rookie season.
Munford has two years remaining on his $3.7-million rookie deal.
This season proved just how vital Munford is for the Raiders. While Eluemunor initially won the position battle early on, the competition was as close as it could get, and it only made the two better. With Miller's absences, Munford showed he was capable of answering the call, and that is going to be key in his third NFL season.
From February 27 to March 4, 2024, the NFL Scouting Combine will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.
The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.
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