The Oakland Raiders are heavily favored heading into their Week 2 matchup against the New York Jets. The Raiders will be making their home debut against a rebuilding Jets squad that does not figure to put up much resistance against Oakland’s dynamic offense.
The Raiders’ offensive line was impressive in the team’s 2017 NFL opener against the Tennessee Titans, providing excellent protection for Derek Carr. Even more encouraging was seeing left tackle Donald Penn suiting up after recently returning from his holdout.
Penn held out of training camp and preseason action in order to secure a contract extension. However, he eventually reported to the team, citing his faith in getting a deal done. After it was reported earlier in the week he and the Raiders were close to an agreement, the two sides have completed terms on a new extension according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network:
The #Raiders and LT Donald Penn have agreed to terms of a 2-year, $21M extension, sources say. He gets guarantees into 2018.💰💰
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 15, 2017
This is good news for both parties, as Penn now has guaranteed money for the 2018 and 2019 NFL seasons and the Raiders keep their Week 1 offensive line intact for the near future. The 34-year-old has proven to be one of the most productive players at his position and his new extension reflects the team’s faith in him to continue playing at a high level.
With Penn now in tow, the Raiders can fully focus on the weeks ahead as they have a tough road to an AFC West title. The offensive line is proving to be one of the best in the NFL and it will be interesting if they can continue their excellent play for the rest of the 2017 NFL season.
