Raiders begin NFL training camp eager to build on newly laid foundation

The Klint Kubiak and Fernando Mendoza era in Las Vegas is upon us.For the first time in decades, the Raiders have legitimate hope of a bright future.It will take some time to get things squared away, but the new leadership under Kubiak as the head coach, the addition of Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to anchor the offensive line, the free agent defensive additions of Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean, and, of course, the drafting of Mendoza are promising.The Raiders have made it clear they are focused on the upcoming steps rather than the finish line but setting a sturdy foundation will be critically important this year.As they get set to open training camp Tuesday, here are some things to focus on:In the running: Jackson Powers-Johnson, Caleb RogersThe Raiders appear comfortable at left tackle (Kolton Miller), left guard (Spencer Burford), center (Linderbaum) and at right tackle (D.J.

Glaze).But it’s wide open at right guard, where the organization is waiting on Powers-Johnson to prove he can stay healthy and play consistent football.

Both have been issues during his first two seasons.Rogers is well regarded in the building and could be poised to push Powers-Johnson aside.In the running: Darien Porter, Jermod McCoyThe Raiders are set with Eric Stokes at one perimeter corner spot and veteran Taron Johnson manning the slot corner position.

It’s less clear opposite Stokes, although some promising candidates are in place: Porter, a third-round pick last year, and McCoy, a first-round talent who fell to the fourth round due to concerns with his surgically repaired knee.McCoy’s knee is more about longevity than current status, and if he’s good to go to start camp, he has a chance to be the most dynamic young cornerback prospect the Raiders have had in years.In the running: Jack Bech, Dont’e Thornton, Malik BensonThe Raiders lack a premier WR1, instead running their pass game through Pro Bowl tight end Brock Bowers.

For description purposes, Tre Tucker and Jalen...