#RaidersNation #NFL #OffensiveLine
Las Vegas, NV — What began as one of the most promising camp storylines for the Las Vegas Raiders has quickly turned into one of their most pressing concerns. Second-year offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson (JPJ), who shifted from center to guard during training camp, delivered a shaky performance in Sunday’s loss that left the coaching staff with more questions than answers.
According to Pro Football Focus, Powers-Johnson graded out as the Raiders’ lowest-rated offensive player, a damning statistic for a unit already under scrutiny.
The struggles started early. Powers-Johnson picked up a costly personal foul penalty in the first half and allowed an easy sack that killed momentum on a key drive. Although his play improved somewhat in the second half, analysts agree his margin for error with the new coaching staff is shrinking fast.
Insider Warning: Cappa Waiting in the Wings
Raiders insider Hondo Carpenter offered pointed criticism on his Las Vegas Raiders Insider podcast, stressing that Powers-Johnson’s mental lapses could soon cost him his starting role.
“Jackson Powers-Johnson had a stupid penalty. He’s not stupid, but it was a stupid lose-your-temper, get-mad-like-he-did-last-year penalty. That’s the stuff that certainly contributed to him competing for his job. If that continues, you will see Alex Cappa take his spot. I know that for a fact,” Carpenter said.
Veteran guard Alex Cappa, who has been working his way back from injury, is reportedly close to being fully integrated into the lineup. If Powers-Johnson’s inconsistency continues, a change could be imminent.
What It Means for the Raiders
For head coach Antonio Pierce, the offensive line was expected to be a cornerstone of the Raiders’ physical identity this season. Instead, early breakdowns have exposed vulnerabilities, especially on the right side of the line. Powers-Johnson’s development remains a key storyline, but the patience of both coaches and teammates may be running thin.
With Cappa ready to push for playing time, the next few weeks could decide whether JPJ solidifies his role as a starter — or slips back into a rotational role on an offensive line still searching for stability.
