Just as expected, reports are starting to fuel the narrative that Tom Brady will eventually replace Derek Carr as the Las Vegas Raiders’ franchise quarterback. Then again, where does Jarrett Stidham fit into all this? The plan at quarterback is as murky as ever right now.
Next Raiders quarterback: Tom Brady, Jarrett Stidham, or Derek Carr?
First, you have Carr, the now-ousted signal-caller. You had his older brother, former NFL bust David Carr, go on live television and make it known that No. 4 will play again. That situation alone is fascinating. There are many routes that it can take, whether it’s a trade or an outright release. One thing is for sure: when the outcome is decided, it’ll make for must-see TV.
Now, onto Brady. To say that Raider Nation hates No. 12 is an understatement. It truly is. Nevertheless, owner Mark Davis has been a fan of him, and while he won’t publicly acknowledge it, the Raiders once came close to getting him. Fans can thank Jon Gruden for that not happening. Unfortunately for the “we hate Brady” club, the Raiders’ new brain trust is familiar with Brady. Current head coach Josh McDaniels had his biggest share of success when he was paired with Brady. General manager Dave Ziegler is also familiar with him, having been groomed in the Patriots’ organization.
According to Mike Sando of The Athletic, the possibility of Brady becoming a Raider makes sense. Not only that, but Brady is already looking for his next landing spot.
“There’s buzz in league circles that Brady is ‘lining up places where he wants to go’ next season. Brady’s contract voids after this season. The Raiders could provide a natural landing spot with Brady’s former New England offensive coordinator, Josh McDaniels, in place as Las Vegas’ head coach.”
Hondo Carpenter, a Raiders beat writer who is on the ground with the situation, recently added more context to this. While listing off possibilities for the Raiders’ next quarterback, he listed Brady as having a 40 percent chance.
“The GOAT knows the system, is great friends with McDaniels, and would instantly seize the locker room. He will be a free agent, but if successful in 2023, he could make another one-year decision to come back in 2024.”
Look, no one knows who the future starting quarterback is. McDaniels and Ziegler are the only people who know (possibly). At the same time, the whole debacle is fluid. Many things can change between now and Carr’s February deadline. Also, there’s no indication that Brady will play again in 2023. Needless to say, the offseason is already beginning to take shape for the Raiders.
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*Top Photo: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports