The Raiders are going to Raider, or are they? Just hours after announcing an agreement in place for Kliff Kingsbury to be the next offensive coordinator, a day later he withdrew his name. Suddenly, Chip Kelly, Eric Bienemy, and Pep Hamilton had interviewed in a down-low, real-hush-hush style for the job. Twelve hours later, the Raiders found the next man up in Luke Getsy.
Is there a new OC in Sin City?
There are rumors that Luke Getsy, the former offensive coordinator of the Chicago Bears and a friendly face for receiver Davante Adams, will be announced as the new offensive coordinator of the Las Vegas Raiders. During the 2016–2017 seasons, Getsy coached wide receivers, specifically helping Adams make it to his first Pro Bowl. Getsy was also a quarterbacks coach in 2019 and the passing game coordinator in 2020–2021. During those seasons, Adams received 318 targets, while the rest of the receiving corps received 336.
Then it was on to Chicago.
Things didn’t go as planned with the Bears once Getsy took the reins as offensive coordinator. Justin Fields was electric running the football and did display improvement as a passer last season. Running the football is what the Bears were best known for; they were second in the league in rushing attempts and yards and 11th in rushing touchdowns. However, what is problematic is the fact that Fields has been the team’s leading rusher for the past two seasons.
The “new” Raiders offense
A bruising physical running attack is what head coach Antonio Pierce says will be where the Raiders hang their hat on offense. One thing is for certain: Aidan O’Connell will not be leading the Raiders in rushing in 2024. Make no mistake, there are plenty of questions Getsy will have to answer.
From those who have sounded off in Raider Nation, it’s obvious they are not thrilled with the move at all.
One foot in, one foot out…
Being a Raider isn’t for everyone. What caused Kliff Kingsbury to back out on the Raiders? One may never know, but for now, it appears the Washington Commanders swooped in late and made him an offer he couldn’t refuse. Whether he was offered a two-year deal versus the three-year he wanted or he just got a much better offer from the Commanders. His withdrawal from consideration sent shockwaves.
What will the Raiders do at the quarterback position in 2024? This is probably the most glaring issue facing the team moving forward. With the 13th pick in the draft, having a chance at the premium prospects feels like a pipe dream. With Getsy slated to be the offensive coordinator and potentially a run-heavy scheme, quarterback may be an afterthought.
Inversely, if Getsy manages to unshackle himself from Chicago’s limitations and draws on his Packers roots, then we may see a high-round draft pick used on a quarterback with either a similar skillset to Rodgers or the physical traits of Jordan Love.
*Top Photo: Getty Images