The Oakland Raiders are off to a rough start in 2012, and things won't be getting easier as offensive tackle Khalif Barnes and cornerback Shawntae Spencer will be out indefinitely. The two players are battling injuries, and timetables have yet to be determined for their returns, according to SFGate.com.
Barnes, an eight-year veteran, is dealing with a groin injury. The right tackle was a mainstay for the Raiders in 2011, starting all 16 games. He was on his way to doing the same this season after starting in the first two weeks. Willie Smith, who is in he second year in the NFL and first with Oakland, is the likely candidate to replace Barnes. Smith played in four games for the Redskins last season, starting three.
Spencer, who comes over to Oakland in 2012 after spending eight years in San Francisco, sprained his right ankle in Sunday's loss to the Miami Dolphins. The corner appeared in the first two games for the Raiders, making three tackles.
The Raiders have a tough road ahead, and these injuries are going to make it more difficult. The next three games come against the Steelers, Broncos, and Falcons.
For more on Oakland, head to Raiders blog Silver and Black Pride.
