There is a newfound sense of optimism surrounding the Oakland Raiders amidst all the changes they made this offseason. Unfortunately, it could mean the beginning of the end for left tackle Donald Penn.
The writing is essentially on the wall after Oakland selected former UCLA left tackle Kolton Miller with the 15th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. According to Vic Tafur of The Athletic, a change could be made as soon as training camp:
Penn is coming back from a serious foot injury, and the Raiders drafted Kolton Miller in the first round to play his spot as soon as possible. Can Penn hold him off for a season, or will Miller show enough at training camp that the Raiders entertain thoughts of cutting Penn or even asking him to take a pay cut?
Miller would be a backup if Penn starts, as the team, right now, is only planning to put him at right tackle if there was an emergency. Veterans Breno Giacomini and David Sharpe and third-round pick Brandon Parker are competing for the right tackle job.
Needless to say, a lot has changed since last offseason. Penn signed a lucrative two-year, $21 million extension and has since followed it up with his third career Pro Bowl selection. However, it appears that his job and future with the Raiders may be in jeopardy.
Miller established himself as one of the more talented prospects in this year's draft after a stellar year at UCLA. He even made NFL Combine history for the longest broad jump by an offensive lineman. That said, Penn has acknowledged that he will help Miller with his development despite the impact it may have on his immediate future.
The notion of Penn going from Pro Bowler to being a backup seems a bit far-fetched at the moment. However, if Miller can prove himself to be a viable option, then it would not make much sense to keep the veteran around. He will need to have a stellar training camp in order to do so. Otherwise, it would be risky to place the responsibility of quarterback Derek Carr's safety in the hands of a rookie.
Follow Us
Subscribe