BREAKING NEWS: Raiders are signing former Bengals guard Alex Cappa to a two-year, $11.2 million deal that includes $5.5 million fully guaranteed at signing.

BREAKING NEWS: Raiders are signing former Bengals guard Alex Cappa to a two-year, $11.2 million deal that includes $5.5 million fully guaranteed at signing.

The Las Vegas Raiders have made a significant move in strengthening their offensive line by signing former Cincinnati Bengals guard Alex Cappa to a two-year contract worth $11.2 million. This deal, which includes $5.5 million fully guaranteed at signing, represents a clear commitment by the Raiders to improve their protection for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and enhance their running game. Cappa’s arrival in Las Vegas comes at a time when the Raiders are looking to rebuild their roster and solidify their offensive line for both the immediate and long-term future.

Alex Cappa, a 6’6″, 305-pound offensive lineman, has been a consistent and reliable starter throughout his career. Originally drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Cappa played four seasons in Tampa before joining the Bengals on a four-year contract in 2022. During his time with the Bengals, Cappa made a substantial impact, helping the team reach back-to-back AFC Championship games and providing stability to an offensive line that has historically struggled to protect its quarterbacks.

Cappa’s ability to be a versatile and powerful interior lineman has been key to his success. Known for his strong pass protection and ability to create running lanes, he brings experience and leadership to the Raiders’ offensive front. This signing is particularly important given the Raiders’ offensive struggles in recent seasons, as they’ve been trying to establish a more consistent running game and provide adequate protection for their quarterbacks. Garoppolo, who was signed earlier this offseason to take over as the team’s starting quarterback, will now have a veteran presence like Cappa to help fortify the interior of the line.

The Raiders’ offensive line has been in flux in recent years, with changes and injuries limiting their ability to keep a consistent unit on the field. Adding Cappa to the mix should help stabilize the line and improve the overall performance of the offense. His experience in high-pressure playoff games with the Bengals will also be invaluable, as the Raiders look to get back into postseason contention after a few years of mediocrity. With Cappa now on the roster, the Raiders have a proven veteran who knows what it takes to perform at a high level in big moments, which could prove critical in close games throughout the season.

Cappa’s signing also comes at a crucial time for the Raiders, who have been under the leadership of head coach Josh McDaniels for just over a year. McDaniels has made it clear that he wants to establish a tough, physical identity for the team, and Cappa fits that mold perfectly. His leadership on the offensive line could help set the tone for the entire unit and inspire greater cohesion among the players.

The $11.2 million deal, with $5.5 million fully guaranteed, ensures that Cappa will be compensated well for his contributions, but it also shows that the Raiders are serious about investing in their offensive line. By securing Cappa on a relatively short-term deal, the Raiders have the flexibility to continue improving their roster while ensuring that they have a solid foundation in place for the next few seasons.

Overall, Alex Cappa’s signing is a win for the Raiders, as it strengthens one of their most critical areas of need and provides a key veteran presence to the offensive line. As the team looks to compete in a highly competitive AFC West division, the addition of a player like Cappa gives them a much-needed boost in their pursuit of playoff contention.