Las Vegas Raiders starting right guard Jackson Powers-Johnson sustained a significant ankle injury during Thursday night’s 10-7 loss to the Denver Broncos. The injury occurred in the second quarter as quarterback Geno Smith was sacked by edge rusher Nik Bonitto. Powers-Johnson, a rookie standout from Oregon, was helped off the field and later ruled out “for a while” by head coach Pete Carroll. The setback adds to a growing list of injuries on the Raiders’ offensive line, raising concerns about depth and protection heading into Week 11.
Powers-Johnson was injured on November 6 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas during a divisional matchup against Denver. The injury occurred as Smith was brought down on a third-and-long play, with Powers-Johnson rolled up on from behind. Trainers responded immediately, and the guard was unable to put weight on his right leg. Carroll later confirmed the severity, stating, “He’ll be out for a while.” The injury leaves the Raiders without three starting linemen, severely impacting their offensive scheme.
Offensive Line Status and Game Impact
In addition to Powers-Johnson:
- Dylan Parham (LG) suffered a high ankle sprain in the same quarter.
- Kolton Miller (LT) remains on injured reserve with an ankle injury.
The depleted line contributed to Smith being sacked six times and pressured on 42% of dropbacks. The Raiders managed just 188 total yards and failed to score in the second half. Powers-Johnson had started all nine games this season, earning praise for his run-blocking and pass protection.
Quotes and Reactions
Coach Pete Carroll addressed the injuries postgame: “We’re thin up front. Losing Jackson and Dylan in the same quarter is tough. We’ll have to regroup.”
NFL analyst Matt Bowen noted on ESPN, “Powers-Johnson was one of the few bright spots on that line. His absence will be felt immediately.”
Teammate Andre James added, “We’ve got to step up. No excuses. It’s next man up.”
Depth and Competitive Outlook
The Raiders’ offensive line depth will be tested in the coming weeks. With three starters sidelined, backups Greg Van Roten and Jordan Meredith are expected to see increased snaps. The lack of continuity could hinder Smith’s ability to execute the passing game, especially against pressure-heavy defenses.
Las Vegas now sits at 2-7, and the injuries threaten to extend their losing streak to four games. Powers-Johnson’s absence removes a stabilizing force from an already struggling unit.
What’s Next: Recovery Timeline and Week 11 Preview
The Raiders enter a mini-bye week before hosting the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football, scheduled for November 17. Powers-Johnson is expected to miss multiple games, though no official timetable has been provided. Carroll will evaluate practice squad options and potential free-agent signings to reinforce the line.
Medical updates on Parham and Miller are expected early next week.
