The votes from Las Vegas Raiders fans are in, and the people have spoken—sort of.
With Fernando Mendoza likely to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Raiders in April’s draft, the question of who will support him is becoming one of the most intriguing roster decisions of the offseason. Our poll received 308 responses (thus far), and the results reveal a story worth exploring.
What are the options for the Raiders?
Aidan O’Connell is currently running away with it at 39.7%. That shouldn’t be entirely surprising. O’Connell enters Year 4, the final year of his rookie contract, and familiarity counts for something. He can start a few games competently, and that’s precisely what the Raiders need in a backup. He’s cheap, he knows the building, and he already has two wins over the Kansas City Chiefs, which isn’t anything to scoff at.
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Derek Carr came in second at 29.5%, a sentimental choice, sure, but not an entirely irrational one. A return from retirement remains in the realm of possibility, though it’s hard to envision Carr accepting a backup role after everything that’s happened between him and this franchise.
Kirk Cousins landed at 27.5%, and that’s where the real-world overlap is strongest. The Raiders are expected to show interest in Cousins, with new head coach Klint Kubiak having previously served as his quarterbacks coach. He’s a known commodity; he can start if Mendoza isn’t ready Week 1, and the connection to the coaching staff is real.
Only 3.3% wanted another rookie, which suggests fans aren’t interested in a developmental room. They want a safety net.
The front office will ultimately decide this, not a poll. But the fan base, at least, seems to lean practical over nostalgic. O’Connell stays, and if Cousins comes cheap enough, you run it back with both.
Smart money says that’s exactly what happens.
Be sure to check out the live poll and cast your vote, Raider Nation!
*Top Photo: Getty Images