Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr has been one of the most polarizing topics of conversation for years. The three-time Pro Bowl signal-caller has survived countless coaching and executive changes, something that merits recognition. The fact is, the Raiders have been the definition of dysfunction for quite some time. So many so-called “saviors” have come and gone, including Reggie McKenzie, Jon Gruden, and Mike Mayock. Through it all, Carr has remained a stalwart, a locker room leader who, above all else, just wanted to win. Now, he’s being told to go home for the last two games.
Is this the end of an era for the Raiders and Derek Carr?
While speaking to the media, McDaniels pointed out that he wanted to see what Jarrett Stidham could offer the team. It’s a chance to “evaluate a younger player,” he said. It’s an interesting stance to take, but are we really shocked? McDaniels stated that the passing game had simply not been up to snuff this past month. You also had running back Josh Jacobs express his frustration with the offense. To be clear, he never mentioned Carr by name. If you look at all the signs, the decision to bench Carr seemed like a matter of time, not so much if it was going to happen.
On top of all the commotion, Carr’s financial situation also surely played a part in McDaniels’ decision. If Carr were to get hurt in these final games, the organization would be on the hook for a couple of years. Now, it should be stated that McDaniels gave no indication of what the future holds for No. 4. Instead, the coach said, “There’s a lot to be sorted out once the season is over.” Following an abysmal performance in freezing temperatures this past weekend, McDaniels did what none of his predecessors ever could: he “parked the Carr.” Also, and this is critical, the decision comes as the Raiders are still in playoff contention, albeit narrowly.
Raider Nation reacts to the news…
As one might expect, the news surrounding Carr has evoked a powerful and resounding response from Raider Nation. Check out our attempt to gauge the reaction via our Twitter account down below. Also, while you’re at it, see what other people are saying on social media right now.
Welp, it happened. Derek Carr is headed to the bench, how are we feeling about this #RaiderNation
🤔
Let's see your GIFs down below 👇
— RaiderRamble.comâ„¢ (@TheRaiderRamble) December 28, 2022
I do like the Kennedy-conspiracy like "McDaniels only benched him to hide his own failures" narrative. Really folks? McDaniels' failures aren't hidden at all or by benching an underperforming QB. Not hard to figure out.
— Scott Gulbransen (@LVGully) December 28, 2022
The problem with players like Carr is that the salary spread between the great qb and solid nfl quality qb is too small to really make up the talent gap. The draft alternative is ultra cheap and carries higher upside
— Jason_OTC (@Jason_OTC) December 28, 2022
The line don't lie. #Raiders looking toward 2023.
— Moe Moton (@MoeMoton) December 28, 2022
So cute that McDaniels trying to say its about looking at Stidham. Please. #Raiders
— Bill Williamson (@BWilliamsonNFL) December 28, 2022
Carr is nowhere near as bad as J Russell. Not even close.
But today feels similar to when Russell was cut.
Outside of HC/GM, QB is the only position that can completely change the fortunes of a team.
Sure, Raiders will prob screw this up, but there's hope.
— James (@OaklandAboveAll) December 28, 2022
*Top Photo: AP Photo/Don Wright