They say the definition of insanity is repeating the same thing and expecting a different result. The Las Vegas Raiders and Raider Nation have never been known as sane, and maybe that’s why Derek Carr has been the quarterback for eight years.
Fans always look to 2016, but that season grows further and further away each day. The numbers have been great, but no postseason means the numbers don’t matter. It’s been said before, “Commitment to Excellence.” With what has happened in the last few seasons, it seems more like “Commitment to Mediocrity.” The typical second half of the season collapse is in full swing for the Raiders. The hot 5-2 start has been long forgotten.
The Raiders sit at 6-6 after a possible season-saving victory against the Dallas Cowboys. Unfortunately, the Silver and Black laid an egg against the Washington Football Team last week. As expected, much of the criticism has been directed towards the signal-caller. The eight-year veteran has been a lightning rod of emotions for both critics and supporters alike.
With his consistent “put it on me” comments, Carr has elicited anger and despair, which is exacerbated by his uninspiring play at times. With so many questions surrounding this organization after a season filled with turmoil, what should be done about Carr? Is this the offseason that they move on? Well, if that’s the case, here are a few options.
Saved Himself?
Carr began the season on fire, as he was in the early MVP discussions. In the first seven games, Carr averaged 324 yards per game and had 12 touchdowns and five interceptions. In the last three games, he has averaged 257 yards and has amassed four touchdowns and four interceptions. That’s not what you want. Carr has shown a knack for flaming out in the second half of a season. Could this be the year where the team parts ways? If Carr is part of a turnaround that leads the team to the playoffs, he will stay, but with the collapse seemingly in motion, a failure could mean it’s time to go. Carr has endured a lot in his tenure, and it can’t all be placed on him, but he has been here through eight years of it, and at some point, Raiders owner Mark Davis will have seen enough.
Aaron Rodgers
We all know how this offseason went for Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. There was back and forth bickering and Rodgers’ publicly lobbying to be traded.
The threat of him not showing up to training camp was very real, but eventually, Rodgers showed up. Nevertheless, one could argue he’s not coming back next season. There was chatter that he would be traded to Vegas this past offseason, but that came and went. Could 2022 be any different? It’s a possibility.
Even the most ardent Carr supporters should not go against it, especially if he brings consensus top-five receiver Davante Adams with him.
Russell Wilson
The 2021 offseason also had rumors and discussion surrounding Russell Wilson. It appeared he wanted out, but just like Rodgers, the talk came and went. Wilson has been a top quarterback for years and has a Super Bowl on his resume like Rodgers. Wilson has played behind makeshift offensive lines and not-so-stellar receiving corps but has always managed to help keep the Seahawks in contention.
A player of his caliber would be a boost for the Raiders, and with questions surrounding the offensive line, Wilson could play through it, but would he want to? Right now, the o-line has at least three pillars to build around in Kolton Miller, Alex Leatherwood, and Andre James. With Denzelle Good recovering and the ability to add more depth next year, this issue could be remedied. If Russell to the Raiders is indeed a possibility, why wouldn’t the organization make a run at it?
Let him finish his contract and draft a replacement?
The quarterback class of 2022 is underwhelming, to say the least. So, options are limited come April. Unfortunately, this means there might not be a long-term answer available next year. Some fans might not want to hear this, but giving him a weapon or two and making another run in 2022 might be best. That might sound like the same old story, but if that’s the case, Carr still gives you the best chance to win.
Being a team in a new city will demand a winner. Sacrificing that to groom a rookie might not be feasible. Reloading the wide receiver position and replenishing the offensive line with depth could give Carr a real shot at leading this team to the playoffs. Games such as the one on Thanksgiving showcase Carr’s ability when the game is on the line. If there’s no clear upgrade, Carr in 2022 might still be the Raiders’ most realistic option.
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*Top Photo: Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images