Jordan Meredith won the Raiders’ center job in offseason competition, moving Jackson Powers-Johnson to right guard as Kolton Miller and Dylan Parham anchor the left side with Powers-Johnson at right guard and DJ Glaze at right tackle in Week 1. Meredith’s leadership and vocal cadence are cited as the biggest difference-maker, far more than a Rimington pedigree could predict.

The Raiders stress communication across all three phases. Free-agent safety Jeremy Chinn and veteran Elandon Roberts are highlighted for their talk on defense, with coaches hoping the sideline-to-field chatter translates to faster, clearer decisions in late-game situations and fourth-quarter adjustability.