Richie Incognito coming off suspension this week ‘big jolt’ for Raiders offensive line, Gabe Jackson getting close to return

The first two games of the season are in the books which means so too is Richie Incognito’s suspension. The veteran left guard was suspended the first two games for a couple of off-the-field incidents including punching coffins and threatening people at a funeral home following the death of his father.

Since his return, however, he has been a model citizen, noting that so long as he stays on his medication he is fine. He accepted the 2-game suspension from the league and is set to return this week as the Raiders begin preparation to face the Vikings in Minnesota.

Incognito was signed to be the team’s starting left guard, and lined up there all offseason and training camp, so his return is a welcome one.

“That’s a big plus for us,” Gruden said of Incognito’s return to the lineup.

While Incognito was out, Jordan Devey has filled in as the starter at left guard. He held up well and will likely move back to being a utility reserve interior lineman.

Still out is starting right guard Gabe Jackson who suffered a torn MCL. Playing in his place has been Denzelle Good who had stepped in for Jackson late last season as well.

Jackson’s expected initial timetable was that he would miss the first month of the season. Sounds like he is at least on schedule, if not potentially back a week early.

“Gabe Jackson, by the way, is getting better every single day,” Gruden continued. “I don’t think he’ll play this week, but he’s getting closer to returning.

“To have Richie back gives us a jolt and hopefully sooner than later we’ll get Gabe back as well.”