The Las Vegas Raiders are contemplating an upgrade at the right tackle position after losing Jermaine Eluemunor to the New York Giants in free agency.
Thayer Munford, who ranked as Pro Football Focus’ 25th-highest graded offensive tackle last season, currently stands as the front-runner for the starting spot. However, given his performance last year where he allowed four sacks across 521 snaps, the team may seek a more seasoned option.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has suggested that the Raiders could pursue Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Jack Conklin as a potential trade target.
Conklin, a two-time First-Team All-Pro, has only allowed four sacks since the start of the 2021 season, showcasing his reliability and high level of play.
Knox estimates Conklin’s trade value at a 2025 fourth-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick, a modest price for an elite tackle. However, Conklin’s four-year, $60 million contract, signed in 2022, and his recovery from a torn ACL and MCL injury from last season, present concerns.
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The Raiders are in a strong financial position with $34 million in salary cap space, allowing them flexibility for potential in-season acquisitions. General Manager Tom Telesco, in his first year with the team, may wait until training camp to make further evaluations.
Given his history of prioritizing offensive line investments during his tenure with the Los Angeles Chargers, a move for Conklin could be a strategic fit.
If Conklin can return to his All-Pro form, his $15 million annual salary, which runs through 2026, would be a bargain compared to the $20 million+ that top right tackles are commanding. This potential acquisition could solidify the offensive line, offering stronger pass protection for quarterbacks Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell, neither of whom are known for their mobility.
In summary, while Munford shows promise, the Raiders’ potential acquisition of a proven talent like Conklin could provide the stability and performance needed at right tackle, particularly given their ample salary cap space and Telesco’s history of valuing strong offensive line play.
