Heading into the offseason, Jackson Powers-Johnson appeared to have secured the starting center position for the Las Vegas Raiders, a role he excelled at during his college career and took over last season after Andre James was injured. However, recent practices have shown Jordan Meredith receiving most first-team reps at center, while Powers-Johnson has shifted toward playing guard. In a recent mock game, Meredith started at center with Powers-Johnson lining up at right guard, signaling a possible change in the Raiders’ approach to their offensive line.
Strategic Reasons Behind Powers-Johnson’s Move to Guard
When Powers-Johnson was drafted last year, the Raiders initially intended for him to play guard, where he began the season before moving to center to fill in during James’ absence. Many anticipated he would remain the starting center, but according to The Athletic’s Tashan Reed, the decision to move him back to guard may reflect strategic considerations rather than a reflection on his abilities.
“Powers-Johnson starred at center in college, spent all of OTAs at center and has made it clear he prefers to play the pivot, but the Raiders believe his ceiling could be just as high at guard, according to team sources. He started multiple games at guard last year,” —Tashan Reed, The Athletic
This switch could allow the Raiders to maximize their offensive line by utilizing Powers-Johnson’s versatility and potential impact at multiple positions.
Kolton Miller Confident in Powers-Johnson’s Versatility
The Raiders’ offensive line has faced challenges in recent seasons, and the emergence of Jordan Meredith at center presents a comparable option to Powers-Johnson. If Meredith can hold the center position effectively, Powers-Johnson shifting to guard would strengthen the overall line. Left tackle Kolton Miller expressed confidence that Powers-Johnson’s adaptability will be a major benefit for the Raiders, regardless of where he plays.
“Regardless of if it’s center or guard, physicality, emotion, a finish to him, He’s so dynamic. Having a lot of the guys be able to do both is big. So, wherever he’s placed, he makes a big impact. … Wherever he’s placed, watch out.” —Kolton Miller, Left Tackle, Las Vegas Raiders
Miller’s remarks highlight Powers-Johnson’s strong presence and the value of his flexibility to the Raiders’ offensive line unit.
Implications for the Raiders’ Offensive Line This Season
The potential position change for Jackson Powers-Johnson could provide the Raiders with their best five-man offensive line yet, combining Meredith’s skills at center with Powers-Johnson’s prowess at guard. This adjustment reflects a thoughtful approach to maximizing talent and addressing the team’s current needs. As the season approaches, Raiders fans will be watching closely to see if this move translates into improved protection and run-blocking efficiency for the offense.