All hell broke loose once it became clear that the Las Vegas Raiders and Derek Carr were headed for divorce. Given the ties between head coach Josh McDaniels and the New England Patriots quarterback tree, many began assuming this would provide the answer. One of those quarterbacks that we can likely scratch off the list is Mac Jones.
Maurice Moton of Silver & Black Today floated the idea of Jones joining the Raiders back in December. Despite laying out a sound argument, many Raiders fans were vehemently opposed. The fact is, Raider Nation isn’t too keen on having more Patriots influence their team. They had to swallow their pride when the new head coach and general manager came from that organization.
Alabama OC/QB coach Bill O’Brien has returned to New England and is being named the Patriots offensive coordinator, sources tell @ClowESPN and me. O’Brien was a Patriots’ assistant coach from 2007-2011, and now returns to coach Mac Jones, whom he briefly worked with at Alabama.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 24, 2023
As far as Jones is concerned, he’s getting a familiar face to work with in New England in Bill O’Brien. Yes, the same O’Brien who’s known for his managerial prowess as Houston Texans general manager. O’Brien, the former offensive coordinator at Alabama and Bill Belichick disciple, coming in likely means that the Patriots are doing their best to work with Jones. Statistically speaking, Jones dropped off without McDaniels last season. Whether O’Brien is the answer or not is anyone’s guess.
Little by little, the Raiders are in danger of becoming “Patriots West.” Or at least that’s how some feel. A quarterback such as Jones, Tom Brady, or Jimmy Garoppolo would surely find success under their old offensive coordinator. There is a plethora of weapons on the Raiders right now, but first, they need to upgrade the offensive line. While Jones was not the first choice of fans, a quarterback from that tree could be the answer this year. Technically speaking, there’s one on the roster right now in Jarrett Stidham. Would one more hurt?
Derek Carr “Doing His Homework” On Potential Landing Spots, Washington Included