Defensive lineman shares interesting statement on Raiders offense

When training camp started last week, it appeared to be clear-cut who the Las Vegas Raiders were going to start on the offensive line.

However, it did not take long for those preconceptions to be swept away. A few days ago, Jordan Meredith was taking first-team snaps at center, parlaying a good 2024 into a real chance to start for the Raiders. The surprising aspect of this is that center was considered as one of the easiest spots on the offensive line to predict, with many assuming 2024 second-round pick Jackson Powers-Johnson would lock up the spot quickly.

However, it appears that a sudden dogfight has broken out for the spot, and the new coaching staff will not just hand it off to Powers-Johnson without him working for it.

One defensive lineman’s comments have added to the speculation of the surprising position battle.

When asked about what he is seeing from the offensive line during training camp, Raiders defensive tackle Adam Butler offered an interesting perspective on the battle.

“I’m excited about Jordan Meredith,” Butler said. “I’m excited about JPJ for sure. I’m a real big fan of JPJ. That’s my guy. Strong, young player. He’s got that energy. I see him as an All Pro guard at some point. I don’t know if that’s now or later. I’m really excited about him. And if it’s ok with you, that’s all I’d like to comment on that at this time.”

Butler could have easily meant to refer to Powers-Johnson as a center, but he would know plenty on the state of the offensive line due to facing them in practice every day.

There is a real chance the Raiders are looking to try again with Powers-Johnson at left guard, opening the center spot for Meredith. It is fair to note that guard is an open competition as well, with Dylan Parham and Alex Cappa currently penciled in as starters. However, neither is set in stone, as Parham was benched in favor of Meredith last season and Cappa is coming off a couple of down seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Butler knows how good both players can be from his battles with them in practice, so his opinion is certainly one worth noting as the battle rages on.