Center Samson Satele injured his ankle against Chicago and quite frankly, has looked awful through two preseason games. Satele, who was traded to Oakland by Miami, was deemed expendable due to his inability to handle the bigger nose guards and tackles in the AFC East. The theory was that he would be a perfect fit for Oakland's zone blocking scheme, but that notion has been consistently disproved since his arrival.
Reserve center Chris Morris has had more than ample opportuntity to prove he can be a contributor with the first team offense and has also been below average at best.
It is clear that the center position will have to be addressed in the 2011 draft, along with the entire right side of the offensive line. Hopefully, newly drafted Jered Veldheer and Bruce Campbell will be able to crack the lineup and solidify what has been a sub-par unit for the past few years.
Veldheer will be auditioning for the starting job at center in this weekend's preseason matchup with the San Francisco 49er's. Center might be a great fit for the massive Veldheer, who has arms that are a little on the short side to play tackle.
Asking a rookie from tiny Hillsdale college to make his NFL debut at center and make the correct calls in his first year could be a risky proposition.
Enter Kevin Mawae. Yes, he is 39-years-old, but he is an All-Pro who has a clean bill of health and the experience and ability to solidify an offensive line that has made great strides in the offseason.
Mawae's knowledge of the game, abiltiy to make calls, and veteran leadership could help make Oakland's run at an AFC West title much more probable. So why not sign him?
Also, with Chaz Schillens out following minor knee...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
