Report: Andre James' Future As A Raider
The Las Vegas Raiders' offensive line was among the best in the National Football League over the last two seasons. However, the Raiders' line might be rebuilt this offseason, as three of their five starting offensive linemen are set to become free agents.
While the Raiders can afford to let some of their free agents land elsewhere, they must find a way to keep multiple free agents in the fold. Veteran center Andre James is one of those players.
Pro Football Focus' Marus Mosher agrees that the Raiders must find a way to keep James heading into next season.
"It’s hard to find quality offensive linemen in the NFL, especially when they are as young (26) and as productive as Andre James," Mosher said. "While James might not be a top-five center in the NFL, he has started 48 games over the past three seasons and has improved each year."
The Las Vegas Raiders will try to keep as much of their offensive line as possible.
Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Mosher believes the Raiders will lose starting tackle Jermaine Eluemunor in free agency, heightening the need to resign James.
"The Raiders will likely lose starting right tackle Jermaine Eleumunor in free agency, but expect them to try to hold onto their starting center," Mosher said. "(Coach) Antonio Pierce can’t let 40 percent of his offensive line walk out the door in free agency this offseason."
Overall, Mosher is correct. The Raiders have three of their starting five offensive linemen set to hit free agency this season. They have a new offensive line coach and a new offensive coordinator, and having a new center on top of all of that could be troublesome for an offense that struggled before all those changes were made.
Center is an important decision, with as many new faces the Raiders will have next season. Finding a way to keep their starting center from the last few seasons could help the Raiders significantly.
It would be challenging for the Raiders to replace James' production on short notice. His experience and familiarity with the organization alone make him worth bringing back.
The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.
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