The Raiders signed the most expensive free-agent offensive lineman in NFL history during the offseason in Trent Brown, and though Brown protected Patriots quarterback Tom Brady’s blindside in 2018, he won’t do the same for Raiders QB Derek Carr.
Instead, the task of playing left tackle will fall on Kolton Miller. The UCLA product was Oakland’s first draft selection after coach Jon Gruden’s return to the club a season ago.
Miller was selected No. 15 overall, and he started every game at LT his rookie campaign. Still, his play was subpar for much of the season. Miller displayed promise and toughness however, playing through a substantial knee injury suffered Week 4 against the Browns.
According to Gruden, it all adds up to a breakout season for Miller in year No. 2.
Miller was a reach in the draft, but he filled a need for Gruden, and the coach desperately wants Miller to pan out over time to justify the selection and keep his rebuild on track.
Last season, the Raiders had no options when Miller struggled, but that’s not the case in 2019. If Miller fails to fill his potential yet again, Oakland could move Brown to the left side and shift Miller to the right.
Elite pass rushers attack from both sides of the defense, however, and Miller has to play better, regardless of where he lines up. But Gruden is a believer, and Miller will get every chance to become a fixture at left tackle for the Raiders.
