ALAMEDA -- Raiders offensive tackle Menelik Watson is physically ready to make his NFL debut on Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles.
He’d better be.
The Raiders don’t have another healthy reserve tackle on the roster, so odds are he’ll play despite being listed as questionable Friday on the official injury report.
Watson has been limited in a week’s practice since returning from a calf injury, although injuries have kept him out of most every practice since training camp.
Watson’s workouts have inspired confidence.
“He’s been better,” Raiders coach Dennis Allen said. “You’re always concerned about a guy with such limited reps but, physically, he looks like he’s ready to go.”
Allen ruled right tackle Tony Pashos (hip) and guard/center Andre Gurode (quadriceps) out for Sunday’s game, leaving last week’s starting offensive line intact. Watson is expected to be a reserve swing tackle, a role Jack Cornell filled last week. He did not play.
Watson said on Wednesday that he wanted to be ready if called upon this week, and believes he’s mentally and physically ready for game action.
“My mindset is focused on the game plan,” Watson said then. “… I’m preparing as if my number’s already called, so I’m ready to face the Eagles.”
Raiders Status Report
Out
SS Tyvon Branch (ankle), G/C Andre Gurode (quadriceps), RT Tony Pashos (hip)
Questionable
OT Menelik Watson (calf), WR Andre Holmes (hamstring)
Eagles Status Report
Out
QB Michael Vick (hamstring)
Doubtful
LB Jake Knott (hamstring)
Questionable
LB Casey Mathews (hip), S Patrick Chung (shoulder), WR Damaris Johnson (ankle)
Probable
QB Nick Foles (concussion), LS Jon Dorenbos (groin), DE Cedric Thornton (knee), OT Jason Peters (shoulder/finger), P Donnie Jones (foot), WR DeSean Jackson (ankle), RB Chris Polk (shoulder)
