Raiders’ Edwards to likely miss first six games

The Raiders may need to place defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. on the Injured Reserve list with a strained hip later this week, coach Jack Del Rio told The Chronicle on Wednesday.

[...] the Raiders are deciding whether to take advantage of the extra roster spot that the IR list provides.

Edwards wore a neck brace for a month and there was some concern that the sprained neck injury could threaten his career.

Luckily for coach Jack Del Rio and defensive coordinator Ken Norton.

Jr., the Raiders’ depth on the defensive line is also good.

Second-round draft pick Jihad Ward moved from tackle to end in last Saturday’s preseason game against Tennessee.

Denico Autry played well last season, but is still trying to get his bearings after offseason wrist surgery and struggled against the Titans.

Two undrafted free agents, defensive tackle Darius Latham and defensive end/linebacker James Cowser, both would appear to be locks to make the team along with fourth-year tackle Stacy McGee.

Edwards’ injury has put more pressure on veteran defensive tackles Dan Williams and Justin “Jelly” Ellis to play well, and Del Rio said he thinks they’re ready to plug some holes in the Sept. 11 season opener in New Orleans.