Raiders Bolster Offensive Line with Tyler Linderbaum and Spencer Burford

The Las Vegas Raiders are making a concerted effort to fix one of the league’s weakest offensive lines. After a disastrous 2025 campaign where the line surrendered 64 sacks, the team is moving aggressively to ensure the unit is competitive in 2026. Central to this plan is signing All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum, a high-profile addition meant to anchor the middle of the line.

Yet, one elite player alone cannot transform a struggling offensive front. The Raiders are supplementing Linderbaum with additional talent to create a cohesive unit. Among the latest additions is Spencer Burford, a former San Francisco 49ers guard, who agreed to a one-year deal to help stabilize Las Vegas’ interior line. The move reflects a strategy of blending established stars with experienced depth.

Burford enters the Raiders’ system with four NFL seasons under his belt. Drafted in the fourth round by San Francisco in 2022 out of UTSA, he started 16 games as a rookie. While injuries have limited his playing time in recent seasons—he appeared in only 11 games in 2025 due to a knee injury—Burford has shown the ability to contribute, particularly in run blocking.

The acquisition of Burford, alongside Linderbaum, underscores the Raiders’ broader vision: to protect their upcoming quarterback and stabilize a unit that was among the league’s worst. With rookie season expectations high for Indiana Hoosiers quarterback and 2025 Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, Las Vegas is prioritizing line improvements to give him the best chance for success.

1. Burford Brings Experience and Run-Blocking Strength

Spencer Burford’s skill set makes him a logical addition to the Raiders’ offensive line. While his overall PFF grade in 2025 was slightly below average, he allowed only two sacks and contributed positively in the running game. Paired with Linderbaum, Burford has the potential to thrive in a system designed to maximize his strengths. Burford’s rookie campaign in 2022 showed promise, as he started all 16 games and established himself as a reliable interior lineman. His ability to handle assignments in the run game and maintain balance in pass protection is expected to help Las Vegas avoid the interior breakdowns that plagued them last season. Despite injuries slowing his development, Burford has remained a solid performer when healthy. His versatility along the interior and familiarity with high-level competition in San Francisco provide the Raiders with an experienced presence alongside their new All-Pro center. In joining Las Vegas, Burford also inherits the opportunity to work under a revamped offensive scheme aimed at protecting Mendoza. His experience in both pass and run situations positions him as a stabilizing force for a line that desperately needs consistency.

2. Offensive Line Focus for Rookie Quarterback

The Raiders’ offensive line overhaul is closely tied to their plans for the 2026 NFL Draft. With the first overall pick expected to be Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Las Vegas is intent on building a line capable of giving the rookie time and space to develop. Protecting a top pick is critical for both short-term success and long-term stability. Linderbaum’s addition provides an immediate anchor, and Burford complements that by reinforcing the interior. The combination aims to reduce sack totals, improve run blocking, and give Mendoza a reliable platform to operate. Fixing the offensive line is the first step in building a team capable of competing in the AFC. This strategy also highlights the importance of balancing star talent with depth. By pairing Linderbaum with veterans like Burford, the Raiders are creating a mix of proven skill and developmental potential. The focus is less on splash moves and more on sustainable improvement along the line. Ultimately, the goal is to create a protective bubble around Mendoza, minimizing early-career struggles and maximizing his ability to adjust to NFL speed. The Raiders are signaling that they understand the connection between offensive line stability and quarterback success.

3. Complementary Offseason Moves

While the offensive line has been the priority for immediate quarterback protection, Las Vegas’ other offseason moves have largely strengthened the defense. The team added former Georgia teammates Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean, as well as edge rusher Kwity Paye, aiming to improve both pass rush and run defense. On offense, the Raiders also signed wide receiver Jalen Nailor to provide additional weapons for Mendoza. These moves suggest a balanced approach, focusing on both protecting the rookie quarterback and creating scoring opportunities. The combination of offensive line upgrades and defensive acquisitions represents a shift from last season, when Las Vegas struggled on both sides of the ball. The team appears committed to a more structured, thoughtful approach to roster building in 2026. By targeting both foundational positions and impact playmakers, the Raiders hope to avoid the mistakes that led to last season’s chaotic offensive line performance. The addition of Linderbaum and Burford is central to that plan, setting the stage for a stronger, more cohesive unit.