The Las Vegas Raiders just made a massive decision at quarterback that could have major ramifications.
This week, the Raiders will start backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham. Stidham, who the team acquired in a trade with the New England Patriots in May, replaces Pro Bowl quarterback Derek Carr.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport tweeted on Wednesday afternoon, “Raiders coach Josh McDaniels announces that the team will start Jarrett Stidham over the next two weeks to have a look at the youth at QB and other positions. Starter Derek Carr won’t play as some vets take a step back.”
#Raiders coach Josh McDaniels announces that the team will start Jarrett Stidham over the next two weeks to have a look at the youth at QB and other positions. Starter Derek Carr won't play as some vets take a step back.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 28, 2022
McDaniels commented on the move at QB during his daily media availability session. Via the Raiders, McDaniels said, “We’re gonna go ahead and start Jarrett in the last couple of games of the season here. You know, none of us are happy where we’re at, but we think it’s an opportunity to evaluate a younger player who hasn’t had much time to play. Talking to Derek, who was great. He understands the scenario that we’re in and the situation. Very supportive of the two young guys, those three guys obviously have worked together, hand-in-hand, all year. He’ll do anything he can to help them.”
Head Coach Josh McDaniels addresses the QB position. pic.twitter.com/1rdhTSsNKr
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) December 28, 2022
Despite a blockbuster trade in the offseason that brought All-Pro receiver Davante Adams to Las Vegas, the Raiders disappointed in 2022. The team is 6-9 as they head into their final two games of the season.
The move at QB doesn’t just mean that Stidham will play the rest of the season out. ProFootballTalk alluded to the potential possibility that the Raiders could cut Carr, which would be a huge move, to say the least.
