Louisville Football: Former Cards in the pros on the move this offseason
By Jacob Lane
Breno Giacomini – OT
Offseason move: Signed with Oakland Raiders
2016-17 statistics: 16 games played, 16 games started
After being released by his long-time team the New York Jets, and spending most of the 2016 offseason unsigned, Breno Giacomini caught on with the Houston Texans shortly after training camp began.
To the surprise of some (including me) the 32 year old offensive tackle played in 16 games, starting every one of those contests at right tackle for the Houston Texans, protecting rookie DeShaun Watson during his incredible run before tearing his ACL.
Giacomini parlayed his big season for the Texans into a new contract with the Oakland Raiders and their new head coach Jon Gruden.
The eight year NFL veteran will likely face some competition for a starting role from long-time left tackle Donald Penn and youngster Menelik Watson, who has struggled in recent years. But again, it wouldn’t be surprising if he was able to land the starting RT position again.
At the least, Giacomini will provide solid depth for Gruden and the Raiders offensive line in the case of injury or poor play from one of the other starters.