One story in a
series, looking at position breakdowns for the Oakland Raiders, who arrive for
training camp in Napa, CA, on July 24. Today – a look at offensive
tackle:
Despite their substandard
performances in the Super Bowl, expect Barry Sims and Lincoln Kennedy to
continue as fixtures on the Raiders offensive line.
Kennedy, who starts at right
tackle, was voted to the Pro Bowl for the third straight year and continues to
establish himself as one of the best tackles in franchise history. Other than
Hall-of-Famer Art Shell, you’d be hard-pressed to name an offensive tackle in
franchise history that you can say, with conviction that has had a better career
in a Raider uniform than Kennedy. The 6-foot-6, 335-pound mammoth was plagued by
migraine headaches last season but continued to perform at a high level.
Sims has been the epitome of the
term “steal.” He made the team as an undrafted free agent in 1999 and has become
a solid starter at left tackle the last 2-1/2 seasons. Sims continues to combat
injuries with his feet but has turned into a very good pass blocker.
The Raiders have second-year man
Langston Walker waiting in the wings. Walker is a jumbo-sized 6-8, 345, and many
draft touts blasted Oakland for taking him in the second round. Walker, however,
exceeded those expectations. Walker, who can play either guard or tackle, played
well when called upon and was even used as a third tight end.
Brad Badger, Matt Stinchcomb and
sixth-round draft pick Dustin Rykert supply versatility with their ability to
play both guard and tackle. Chad Slaughter could figure into the equation as a
backup.
Vince
D’Adamo can be reached via e-mail at vdad7@yahoo.com