The Las Vegas Raiders continue looking for a solution at right guard. After being displeased with the play of Jackson Powers-Johnson and Caleb Rogers, head coach Klint Kubiak turned to rookie Trey Zuhn in Week 8. Zuhn made his first career start versus the New York Jets, and the initial signs were encouraging.
The 91st overall selection was up against a talented Jets defensive line. Zuhn was credited with allowing just two pressures and zero sacks in pass protection, according to Pro Football Focus. Coach Kubiak sounded thrilled with his debut performance.
The Raiders also ran the football relatively effectively versus the Jets. Zuhn played a role in generating some decent rushing lanes for Mike Washington Jr., who replaced Ashton Jeanty as Kubiak's
lead back. The offense enjoyed an explosive 38-point scoring day.
It's difficult for rookie offensive lineman to immediately thrive in today's NFL. Zuhn's debut start was encouraging, with lots of room for improvement both as a pass protector and run blocker. He arguably played better than Powers-Johnson and Rogers have this year, and that's notable given his obvious lack of experience.
Zuhn will attempt to build on that performance versus the San Francisco 49ers in Week 9. He capitalized on his opportunity, doing enough to earn another start against a stout 49ers defensive front.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: How did Raiders rookie Trey Zuhn fare in his first career start?
