The Las Vegas Raiders made sure to add a familiar face at quarterback once the new regime was in place. That signal-caller is Jarrett Stidham, of New England Patriots’ lore, who is familiar with Josh McDaniels.
Everyone knows that Derek Carr is the undisputed leader of the Raiders’ offense. In fact, no quarterbacks that would hint at a positional battle were added this offseason. Gone is Marcus Mariota, and in his place, the Raiders have Stidham. The strategy behind bringing him in is more than likely tied to McDaniels’ system. The new head coach is installing both play-calling and a philosophy that helped the Patriots win multiple Super Bowls. As for the Raiders, Stidham provides knowledge and experience in that system. According to offensive coordinator Mick Lombardi, with most of the offense having to learn and adapt, Stidham is proving valuable.
Speaking with the media, Lombardi shed more light on Stidham’s previous experience and how that translates onto the field with training camp in full swing.
“Sure. I think it helps him, it gives him an advantage, but also at the end of the day all these guys come in here and they had a practice in the morning, they have a heavy installation in the evening. They have a walkthrough in the evening, and the installations aren’t the same as the ones he’s had previously in New England.”
Jarrett Stidham brings experience with him to the Raiders’ new offense
It’s interesting to note that Lombardi made it a point to mention that this offense isn’t an exact replica of the Patriots’ offense. At the same time, Stidham’s experience does give him a solid foundation and understanding of what McDaniels is trying to install. Obviously, he still has to prepare every day just like any other player, as Lombardi points out, but overall, Stidham has some semblance of an advantage.
“It’s something that he has to learn that evening and study that night to really get. Now, obviously, the operation stuff gives him some advantage…”
No one’s expecting Stidham to challenge Carr or get any meaningful playing time barring injury. He did throw for two touchdowns last year under McDaniels, but for now, he’s helping this Raiders offense make a successful transition with a new coach.
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*Top Photo: Getty Images
