Coach Cregg Speaks on Signing Multiple Free Agent OL
Out of the starting five offensive linemen for the Las Vegas Raiders, three are free agents. The offensive line coach and general manager of the Raiders have both been replaced. Next season, their offensive line will surely look different.
According to Silver and Black Pride’s Matt Holder, the Raiders may profit this summer from Cregg’s connections to some of the best offensive lineman available as free agents.
“With Andre James’ contract set to expire, adding Cushenberry III is definitely on the table for the Raiders,” Holder stated.
But it’s unclear who the better player is between the two. James is rated as the second-best center by PFF and 44th overall, while he is ranked fifth by The Athletic. Given that their career paths have been comparable over the past three years, that makes logical.”
Like James, Cushenberry III has shown a fair amount of consistency in pass protection, allowing no more than 24 pressures since his rookie season (according to PFF). Until the 2023 campaign, he hadn’t received a rating as a run blocker higher than the mid-60s. The Raider was 11th among centers with a score of 75.0, a few points higher than the Bronco’s 72.4.
Holder thinks the Raiders might sign Cushenberry III for greater long-term value after a successful season.
“Also, both are about to turn 27 years old, with James being roughly six months older,” Holder stated. “PFF projects Cushenberry III to be more expensive, though, with a four-year, $57.1 million ($34.25 million guaranteed) contract, while James’ estimated figure sits at three years, $27 million ($15 million guaranteed).”
Holder also thinks offensive guards Damien Lewis and Saahdiq Charles would be interested in joining the Raiders.
The NFL Scouting Combine will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, from February 27 to March 4, 2024.
The NFL Draft is scheduled for April 25–27, 2024, in Detroit, Michigan. The No. 13 overall pick is presently in the hands of the Las Vegas Raiders.