Why do the Raiders insist on giving IOL Alex Cappa 1st-team reps?
It's somewhat of a controversial decision. Coach Carroll believes Meredith is among the Raiders' five-best offensive linemen, and his undersized frame is best utilized at center. Even if you don't necessarily agree with sliding Powers-Johnson to guard, you at least understand Carroll's reasoning, as he continues sorting through the best up-front combinations.
What doesn't compute is pretending Powers-Johnson isn't a surefire starter, however. That has occasionally happened at practice. At Wednesday's session, veteran guard Alex Cappa rotated in at right guard with the first-team offense, per reports.
Cappa signed a two-year contract worth $11 million with the Raiders earlier this offseason after being released by the Cincinnati Bengals. The former Humboldt State standout hasn't been consistently healthy, having missed multiple practices at training camp. The veteran Cappa struggled last year, earning a pass-blocking grade of 39.7 from Pro Football Focus. Meanwhile Powers-Johnson is one of the young building blocks on the roster.
The Raiders are insisting on making camp difficult for Powers-Johnson. Not only is the former Oregon performer not playing his best position, but he's also "competing" with an underperforming veteran. Coach Carroll should end the facade and anoint Powers-Johnson as the clear-cut starter.
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