Expectations for Brock Bowers and the Raiders’ Top Rookies in Preseason
The 2024 NFL preseason is shaping up to be a crucial period for the Las Vegas Raiders, as the team evaluates its roster and prepares for the upcoming season. With new acquisitions and draft picks, the Raiders are focused on integrating key rookies and determining their impact on the team. The early addition of players like defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and quarterback Gardner Minshew has generated considerable excitement, but the true measure of the Raiders’ future success may hinge on how well their rookie class performs during the preseason. In particular, the top three rookies from the 2024 draft class—tight end Brock Bowers, interior offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson, and interior offensive lineman Delmar Glaze—are expected to play significant roles. Here’s an in-depth look at their preseason expectations and potential impact on the Raiders.
Brock Bowers: The Versatile Playmaker
The Raiders’ first-round pick, Brock Bowers, was selected with the 13th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Bowers, a standout from the University of Georgia, was considered a best-player-available choice despite the Raiders having already invested in tight ends Michael Mayer and Harrison Bryant. His selection speaks to his immense potential and the team’s belief in his ability to transform their offense.
Bowers’ versatility is one of his most significant assets. During the offseason, he demonstrated his ability to line up in various positions, showcasing his skills as both a pass catcher and a runner. Levi Edwards of the Raiders’ official website highlighted Bowers’ dynamic abilities, noting his effectiveness in multiple roles during OTAs. This adaptability makes him a valuable asset for offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, who will likely use Bowers in creative ways to exploit defensive mismatches.
In the preseason, Bowers is expected to be a standout performer. Given his advanced skill set and the relative inexperience of many opponents’ backups, he should make a substantial impact in the early games. While Bowers may not start in the preseason opener, the coaching staff will likely want to see him make a few highlight-worthy plays to validate their decision to select him so high in the draft. By the time the preseason concludes, Bowers should have shown enough promise to justify his role as a key offensive weapon.
Jackson Powers-Johnson: The Physical Prodigy
Jackson Powers-Johnson, the Raiders’ second-round pick at 44th overall, is another rookie to watch closely. The Oregon product was highly regarded for his physical traits and potential, although he was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list to start training camp due to an undisclosed injury. Despite this setback, Powers-Johnson’s talent and high upside make him a critical part of the Raiders’ future.
Powers-Johnson’s injury could limit his preseason opportunities, but it’s expected that he will gradually integrate into the team’s offensive line rotation. His ability to play both center and guard provides the Raiders with valuable flexibility. Brandon Thorn of the Bleacher Report Scouting Department noted that Powers-Johnson’s technical aspects may need refinement, but his physical attributes should allow him to make an immediate impact.
In the preseason, Powers-Johnson may not see as many snaps as Bowers, especially if the injury affects his conditioning and readiness. However, when he does take the field, he should be able to demonstrate his potential against second-string defenders. The veteran addition of Andrus Peat is likely to take the starting role early in the preseason, but Powers-Johnson will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and possibly earn a starting spot for the regular season. His performance in the preseason will be closely scrutinized, as it will be indicative of how quickly he can adapt and contribute at the NFL level.
Delmar Glaze: The Versatile Protector
Delmar Glaze, the Raiders’ third-round pick, rounds out the top three rookies to watch during the preseason. Selected 77th overall, Glaze was a standout at Maryland, where he played both left and right tackle. His experience at multiple positions on the offensive line makes him a valuable prospect for the Raiders, who are looking to bolster their depth and flexibility along the line.
Glaze’s path to immediate playing time might be less clear compared to Bowers and Powers-Johnson. With left tackle Kolton Miller opening camp on the PUP list, there could be opportunities for Glaze to see action at tackle positions during the preseason. This situation may allow Glaze to gain valuable experience and showcase his technical skills against a variety of defensive alignments.
Glaze’s strong technical foundation, coupled with his versatility, gives him a chance to make an impression. If Miller’s recovery takes longer than expected, Glaze could see extended playing time, which would help him gain confidence and adjust to the speed of the NFL game. Even if he doesn’t secure a starting role immediately, his performance in the preseason could solidify his position as a key backup and potential future starter.
The 2024 NFL preseason is a crucial time for the Las Vegas Raiders as they integrate their new rookies and evaluate their potential contributions to the team. Brock Bowers, Jackson Powers-Johnson, and Delmar Glaze are the top three draft picks whose performances will be closely watched. Bowers, with his versatility and playmaking ability, is expected to make a significant impact and potentially become a game-changer in the Raiders’ offense. Powers-Johnson’s physical talent and potential, despite an injury setback, will be key to his role on the offensive line. Glaze’s versatility and technical skills provide the Raiders with valuable depth and flexibility on the line.
As the preseason unfolds, these rookies will have the opportunity to prove their worth and demonstrate their readiness for the regular season. Their performances will not only impact their own futures but also play a role in shaping the Raiders’ overall success in the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these young players adjust to the NFL and contribute to the team’s goals for 2024.
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