With the Las Vegas Raiders poised to utilize the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the team is prioritizing the acquisition of a right tackle during this offseason’s free agency. This move is essential not only to solidify their offensive line but also to provide additional support to last year’s first-round pick and running back, Ashton Jeanty.
Considering the rankings from reputable sources such as Pro Football Focus, The Athletic, and NFL.com, the Raiders have several viable options at right tackle.
Firstly, Jermaine Eluemunor is a strong candidate. With a PFF ranking of 40, The Athletic places him at 16, and NFL.com ranks him 23rd among tackles. Eluemunor had a successful tenure with the Raiders from 2021 to 2023, proving his value after switching to right tackle. Under the guidance of former offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo, he thrived and posted impressive protection statistics, allowing fewer than 30 pressures over four seasons, including just 19 in the last fall. His familiarity with the Raiders’ system could be beneficial for a potential return to Las Vegas.
Another option is Braden Smith, who boasts a PFF ranking of 106, The Athletic at 19, and NFL.com at 45. Despite inconsistency in his rankings, Smith is regarded as one of the best tackles available this offseason. The eight-year veteran has shown resilience, never allowing more than 30 pressures in a season since his second year. However, he has faced injury challenges and saw a notable drop in his run-blocking efficiency last season.
Then there’s Jonah Williams, who has encountered difficulties staying on the field since signing a two-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals. His PFF ranking is 151, with The Athletic rating him at 94. Despite his history of injuries, Williams demonstrated his potential as a solid pass protector when healthy, allowing only seven pressures in six games during the 2024 season.
Fred Johnson also enters the conversation, with a PFF ranking of 295 and The Athletic at 69. Having recently filled in for Lane Johnson, Johnson is looking to transition into a starting right tackle role. He has shown promise, only giving up 17 pressures over 314 opportunities in the right position during the last season.
Lastly, Trent Brown, another former Raider, features on this list, albeit with certain complications due to past relations with the organization. After a rocky departure from Las Vegas, Brown found himself on the Houston Texans’ practice squad before contributing across eight games, allowing just 12 pressures. Although he may not provide a long-term solution for the Raiders, Brown could serve as a qualified stopgap option.
As the Raiders continue to navigate their roster needs ahead of Mendoza’s arrival, the addition of a seasoned right tackle will be crucial in creating a robust offensive line and enhancing the support for their young offensive stars. This proactive approach in free agency could be pivotal as the team aims to improve its competitiveness in the upcoming seasons.