Finding a franchise left tackle is crucial for any football team. This player is responsible for protecting the quarterback’s blind side and setting the tone for the offensive line. Many teams struggle to find an elite player for this position, but the Las Vegas Raiders have been fortunate.
In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Raiders selected Kolton Miller with the No. 15 overall pick out of UCLA. Although Miller was considered a raw prospect at the time, he has developed into one of the best left tackles in the NFL. Despite missing some time in the 2023 season due to a shoulder injury, Miller excelled in pass protection, allowing the fewest quarterback pressures among all tackles with 700 or more snaps.
Miller received an overall grade of 80.2 from Pro Football Focus, marking the third-best grade of his career. His massive frame and exceptional technique make him a dominant force in pass protection. As the Raiders prepare for the 2024 season with uncertainty on the right side of the offensive line and a new quarterback, Miller’s role becomes even more crucial.