‘You’re just as good as your previous play,’ Jordan Meredith says when his number is called

Jordan Meredith keeps prepared so he doesn’t have to.

When starting center Andre James went down against the Minnesota Vikings, the offensive lineman stepped in at guard, and Dylan Parham slid over to center.

This was not his first encounter with a situation like this. His first NFL game was in Week 15 of last season, when he filled in for an injured player. The Western Kentucky UDFA had signed again with the team just six days before.

He began the 2022 season on the Raiders’ practice squad, was released in September, and after a brief run with the Cleveland Browns, the Silver and Black welcomed him back and upgraded him to the active roster for the game against the Patriots.

“I had just got back with then Raiders going into that week,” he told reporters. “I was here to do whatever they asked, and they threw me in.” I told myself I was going to give it my all and see where it took me. It was a nice day and a fun game to participate in.”

The locker room recognized his capacity to step up in that moment. He was signed to a Reserve/Future contract at the end of the season and made the 53-man roster this year after a successful offseason. Throughout the season, he’s found a spot on special teams, continuing to give his all every day while pursuing his NFL goals. According to the team’s depth chart, his versatility in the trenches has earned him backup duties to Parham, James, and Greg Van Roten.

“You’re only as good as your last play,” Meredith pointed out. “It’s difficult to stick around without having film, playing, or being on a team to show people what you can do.” I suppose everyone gets the nerves a little bit before going out. I certainly do. But after that first play, we’re off to a good start, and it’s just football. It’s what we’ve been taught and educated to do.”

Coming in at guard against the Vikings provided Meredith another chance to show off his skills. His most memorable moment, however, would come just four days later on Thursday Night Football. James was ruled out due to an ankle injury received in the previous game. It was a day-to-day situation as they watched his status, with Meredith learning less than 24 hours before kickoff that he would make his first NFL start.

Meredith, who played every offensive action, allowed no sacks while assisting the Raiders attack in scoring seven touchdowns.

“Great opportunity for somebody to go out there on a big-time showcase, and he played well,” said interim offensive coordinator Bo Hardegree. “He’s physical, smart, and tough.” And he’s demonstrated it throughout, even in the spring and fall, he just keeps progressing.”

Meredith minimized his individual accomplishment, instead emphasizing how well the squad worked together despite the absence of two starters, James and Kolton Miller. Meredith’s accomplishment against the Chargers was attributed to the assistance and mentoring of his offensive line room.

“These guys are fantastic. “They keep me calm mentally, they understand the game, they’ve played it,” he remarked. “Staying concentrated in the moment and on your job is extremely beneficial. Don’t worry about what might or might not happen; instead, focus on what they’re asking you to do and give it your all.”