Once again, Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr is the subject of trade talks. However, the Silver and Black could instead move Marcus Mariota, who’s getting interest from the Washington Football Team.
The Raiders could have a potential trade partner
The Football Team is ‘extremely interested’ in trading for Mariota, per Michael Lombardi of The Athletic. Even though they made the playoffs last year, they could use an upgrade at quarterback. They just gave Taylor Heinicke a two-year contract, but it’s doubtful he is the long-term solution at the position. Veteran Alex Smith is still on the roster, but it’s uncertain if the team wants to bring him back. His $23.3 million salary could make it a prime candidate for pay cut or even a cap casualty.
Washington could acquire Mariota and still take a young signal-caller with the 19th overall selection in this year’s draft. Last season, their defense ranked second in total yards and fourth in points allowed. They have a few studs on offense such as wide receiver Terry McLaurin and running back Antonio Gibson, but need to upgrade the quarterback position. They could certainly contend in 2021 if they have stability at the quarterback position and Mariota could provide it.
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What does Marcus Mariota bring to the table?
The second overall pick n 2015’s selection meeting, Mariota has dealt with injuries in recent years. After losing his job to Ryan Tannehill in 2019, he signed a one-year deal with the Raiders last offseason. He’s set to count $11.35 million against the cap in 2021 and Las Vegas could save that amount if they trade him or release him.
The Oregon product appeared in just one game last season, the Raiders Week 15 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. He was 17-of-28 for 226 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Although Las Vegas ended up losing the game, Mariota showed he can play at a high level.
Whether Mariota stays with the Raiders or gets traded, he will have another opportunity to prove he’s a franchise quarterback. The Football Team could be the one that ends up giving him the chance.
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Top Photo: Steve Marcus/Las Vegas Sun