Fansided

Every NFL team’s roster, ranked by preseason potential

By Rucker Haringey

SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 03: Quarterback Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles in action against the Seattle Seahawks at CenturyLink Field on December 3, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 03: Quarterback Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles in action against the Seattle Seahawks at CenturyLink Field on December 3, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images) /
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26. Oakland Raiders

Jon Gruden has made his triumphant return to the NFL and that has Raiders fans dreaming of a Super Bowl run in 2018. It’s not going to happen. This roster has some big time pieces, but lacks the depth to be a legitimate playoff threat.

There’s been a lot of talk about how Gruden might change the Raiders’ offense, but his defensive unit is much further along. Khalil Mack is one of the best defensive players in the game. His ability to rush the passer from multiple positions is a huge boon to Gruden’s defensive game plans. Having Bruce Irvin on the same defense is almost unfair.

Oakland also possesses an above-average secondary. The group could become really good if Gareon Conley is as good as advertised. He’s generated a lot of buzz in the preseason.

On offense, Gruden needs to work his magic on Derek Carr and Amari Cooper. They have to be really good if this group is going to move the ball consistently. Yes, Marshawn Lynch will get plenty of carries and Gruden will extol the virtues of Jordy Nelson’s veteran leadership, but that’s all fluff. The young guys have to get it done to make the Raiders relevant.

The Raiders have the bones of a good team, but they’re not there yet. They need to fill in more young, quality players around their stars to really make a push. It’s a year too early for Gruden to really work his magic.