Oakland Raiders bring back Donald Penn, solidify O-line

The Oakland Raiders have reportedly brought back left tackle Donald Penn, who was among the best in the NFL at his position in 2015. How good can the Raiders’ line be with their offseason additions the last two seasons?

The Raiders’ offensive line is taking shape, and the favorite of many to be the breakthrough team of 2016 just got even stronger with the return of left tackle Donald Penn.

Here’s what our own Ross Woomer had to say about Penn prior to his hitting the free agent market:

“Penn is entering his eleventh NFL season and is a stingy veteran tackle. He has the durability needed to maintain a healthy line. After being signed as a undrafted free agent in 2006, Penn hasn’t missed a game since the beginning of the 2007 season and has started in 139 consecutive games. Although Penn is an offensive tackle he has three career touchdowns. He will add size, leadership and experience to whoever signs him. Penn is a California native and has expressed interest in retiring with Oakland. His contract of 2yr/$9,600,000 ended after the 2015 season.”

The Raiders have already added Kelechi Osemele to their offensive line this offseason, perhaps the best overall player on the market, and they were able to secure the services of center Rodney Hudson last offseason, perhaps the best interior lineman on the market at that time as well.

Although not entirely home-grown, the Raiders have had money to spend, and they have invested a ton in the offensive line, which is an insurance policy for young QB Derek Carr. Putting the best supporting cast around him is of paramount importance, and getting Penn back is another step in the right direction for this team.

The Raiders’ starting five up front could now look something like Penn, Osemele, Hudson, Gabe Jackson, and Austin Howard.

Not bad.

Oakland is making a case for the best offseason of any team, and they have certainly given their young gunslinger plenty to work with.