Oakland Raiders: Examining next steps in Donald Penn contract dispute

TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 30: Tackle Donald Penn #72 of the Oakland Raiders stares into the stands after catching a touchdown pass in the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to tie the game at 10-10 at Raymond James Stadium on October 30, 2016 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Joseph Garnett Jr. /Getty Images) /

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ARLINGTON, TX – APRIL 26: Kolton Miller of UCLA walks onstage after being picked #15 overall by the Oakland Raiders during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Watch Kolton Miller Closely in the Preseason Opener

The Raiders should wait to see how the rookie performs in the preseason opener against the Detroit Lions Friday. In fact, the front office should wait two or three games into the exhibition period before making a major decision on Penn if he refuses to take a pay cut.

If Miller looks great against live competition, there’s more reason to toss him into the fray as a rookie starter. However, a poor showing should force a hard pause on rushing Penn out of the door. The Raiders can’t afford to put quarterback Derek Carr in a vulnerable spot behind two new starters learning to play the position simultaneously.

When healthy, Penn remained solid over the last four seasons. He put together consecutive Pro Bowl campaigns in the last two terms, missing only two regular-season games and a playoff outing. Last year, his overall performance dropped off a bit, allowing four sacks, per Pro Football Focus (subscription required), but he still serves as a better option than a rookie who’s still refining his technique.

Penn’s ability to practice would also help his case. He’s working on the sideline with trainers but still not ready to take the field. Nonetheless, Miller could claim the job before the 35-year-old has a chance to prove the injury didn’t slow him down at this stage in his career.

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