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Potential competition comes as surprise from Raiders

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Derek Hegna | Last updated Jul 28, 2025 10:22 AM ET

Despite the coaching change, it was assumed that Jackson Powers-Johnson would remain as the starting center for the Las Vegas Raiders.

The second-round pick of the Raiders in 2024, Powers-Johnson put together a strong year. He was at his best when he able to kick to his natural position of center, and even showcased some positional versatility at guard. Powers-Johnson clearly has one of the brightest futures of any Raider, and a strong sophomore campaign could cement his status as a linchpin of their offensive line.

However, it appears that the Raiders are not just going to anoint Powers-Johnson as a starter so quickly.

Powers-Johnson is in a surprising competition to keep his starting center role.

At Sunday’s practices, Powers-Johnson was running with the second-team offense, while Jordan Meredith was taking reps as the starting center instead.

#Raiders center Jackson Powers-Johnson is playing with the 2s during team period.

— Ryan McFadden (@ryanmcfadden_) July 27, 2025

Jordan Meredith playing center with the 1s just like on Friday.

— Ryan McFadden (@ryanmcfadden_) July 27, 2025

For many expecting Powers-Johnson to slide into a starting role, the decision to put Meredith ahead in the lineup is somewhat confusing.

Meredith was one of the more impressive performers in 2024 for the Raiders, however, so it makes sense for them to try and place him wherever they can in the lineup. Cross training him at center could be a way to ensure the Raiders have a clear plan if Powers-Johnson gets injured or if the team needs a different look on offense. In that case, giving him a chance to integrate himself within the first-team offense allows him to develop much-needed chemistry.

It would be a surprise if this is little more than the Raiders doing their due diligence, but Powers-Johnson might have to look over his shoulder a little more than expected.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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