The struggling Oakland Raiders’ defense might be taking a big hit at the linebacker position. Outside linebacker Sio Moore was ruled out of Sunday’s game at New England on Sunday and middle linebacker Nick Roach hasn’t been cleared from a concussion he suffered four weeks ago.
While the decision to sit Moore was made Friday, it appears the decision on Roach will come Sunday. He has been practicing on a limited basis, but he hasn't cleared for full contact. Roach, who played every defensive snap last season, suffered the concussion at Green Bay on Aug. 22.
“He’s going through the protocol. He’s getting better every day and hopefully he’ll continue to improve,” Oakland coach Dennis Allen said Friday of Roach.
The Raiders clearly have missed Roach, as they've given up a league-high 400 rushing yards in the first two games. And they will miss Moore, who's been one of Oakland's most active defenders. Miles Burris has been playing for Roach but could move outside for Moore, with Kaluka Maiava playing in the middle in that scenario.
The Raiders (0-2) have further injury concerns. Defensive lineman Antonio Smith was a late add to the injury report with a back injury. He is listed as questionable. He was not on the injury report earlier in the week.
Fellow starters Running back Maurice Jones-Drew (hand), cornerback Carlos Rogers (knee) and receiver Rod Streater (hip) are all questionable. Jones-Drew has practiced on a limited basis for the past two days after being hurt in Week 1. Streater practiced Friday for the first time this week.
