A Bold Position Shift for an Unconventional Prospect

The Las Vegas Raiders are making waves during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) by reimagining 2021 first-round pick Alex Leatherwood as a defensive tackle. This marks a dramatic shift from his original offensive tackle draft role, as the 26-year-old seeks to reinvent himself after inconsistent NFL starts.

Rise and Struggles of a Former Champion

Once a standout at Alabama (2 national championships, Outland Trophy winner), Leatherwood's NFL journey has been rocky. Drafted 17th overall, he struggled with penalties and pass protection at right tackle before shifting to Guard. After being waived in 2022, he spent time on practice squads before joining the Chargers in 2024.

Raiders' Defensive Line Dilemma

Las Vegas ranked 28th in run defense last season, with star edge rusher Maxx Crosby shouldering heavy responsibilities. Injuries and lack of interior pressure have created urgency for solutions. Leatherwood's size (6'6", 34.8-inch arm span) offers potential mismatches against offensive lines.

Learning Curve and Challenges

Transitioning to defense requires mastering new skills like lateral movement and gap control. Leatherwood is working on techniques like swim moves and bull rushes under DL coach Travis Jones. "It's humbling," he admits, "but I'm embracing this new challenge."

A Make-or-Break Opportunity

ESPN analyst Louis Riddick notes this could define Leatherwood's career: "If he shows more than just run-blocking skills, he might become a rotational asset." The Raiders' "no labels" philosophy under coach Pete Carroll supports such experiments to build Versatility.

What's Next for Leatherwood and the Raiders?

OTAs serve as a proving ground. Success here could turn him into an undervalued asset; failure might end his NFL hopes. As Carroll states: "We'll utilize any player who helps us win—regardless of traditional roles."

Follow Leatherwood's progress closely as this unconventional experiment continues to unfold.