The Las Vegas Raiders’ offensive line is starting to round into form as the season progresses.
While they have allowed 22 sacks through the first nine games of the season, they have several games this season where they have not allowed a sack, and they are getting a more consistent push up front, resulting in an improving run game.
The offensive line is key to offensive success, and the Raiders have gotten good production out of star left tackle Kolton Miller and guard Greg Van Roten. If they can get their other linemen to perform well, the Raiders’ offensive line could be a dominant force.
Now, they welcome the New York Jets to Allegiant Stadium, a team with an elite defensive line. There are contributors on the interior and off the edge who can cause problems for the Raiders.
One of those players is second-year defensive end Jermaine Johnson II. Johnson has broken out in his second season and has become a key contributor on the Jets’ young and impressive defense.
The Jets selected Johnson with the No. 26 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Florida State. General Manager Joe Douglas’ 2022 draft class has proven to be the foundation of his team early on.
In 14 games in his rookie season, Johnson posted 29 total tackles, three tackles for loss, and two and a half sacks. Through just eight games this season, he has 26 total tackles, six tackles for loss, and four and a half sacks.
According to Pro Football Focus, Johnson has produced 28 total pressures this season, up from the 14 total pressures he produced his rookie season. Johnson is starting to develop as a pass rusher and becoming a cornerstone of the Jets’ defense in just his second season.
Johnson will face a Raiders’ offensive line that has shown steady improvement throughout the season. It will be crucial for the Raiders to be able to slow down Johnson, along with the Jets’ several other key defensive linemen.
The Raiders must win the battle in the trenches if they want to win their second straight game, but against a player like Johnson in a breakout season, that will prove to be a challenge.