The Raiders are putting major focus on their offensive line after a season in which the unit was widely viewed as the league's weakest. General manager John Spytek has made it clear that improving the front is a priority, with Linderbaum's arrival and Miller's return to health seen as two important steps.
That attention comes after a year in which the line struggled to hold up in pass protection and create steady running lanes. Those problems put extra pressure on quarterback Geno Smith and also made it harder for the ground game, including Ashton Jeanty, to find consistency.
Linderbaum's addition gives the Raiders another piece as they try to stabilize a group that needs to be better at the point of attack. Miller getting back to full health could be just as important, because a reliable veteran presence can help bring more balance and continuity to a line that lacked both.
For Las Vegas, the goal is straightforward: give the offense a better foundation. If the Raiders can get stronger play up front, they should have a better chance to protect Smith, support the rushing attack and avoid a repeat of last season's offensive line troubles.
