Key Takeaways:
– The Las Vegas Raiders have signed quarterback Gardner Minshew to a $25 million two-year contract.
– Minshew is expected to compete with Aidan O’Connell for the starting quarterback role.
– According to former New York Giants executive Marc Ross, the recent roster moves suggest the Raiders are favoring Minshew.
Las Vegas Raiders, an American football franchise, recently lit up sports headlines after signing quarterback Gardner Minshew on a lucrative two-year contract worth $25 million. Despite this big signing, the franchise did not draft a quarterback, giving clear signals about their game plan for the coming season.
Gardner Minshew vs. Aidan O’Connell: Who Will Start?
Minshew, a seasoned player with a record of 37 games in his career, is projected to compete with Aidan O’Connell for the starting quarterback role. While O’Connell had a successful previous season starting 10 games, former New York Giants executive Marc Ross believes the team might have already chosen their favorite. According to Ross, the way the Raiders’ roster is crafted indicates a leaning towards Minshew.
Speaking on the NFL Total Access show, Ross commented, “The Raiders drafted another tight end, Brock Bowers, to complement Mayer, who they drafted the previous year from Notre Dame. Minshew traditionally excelled in two tight-end sets. By playing to his strengths in the passing game, the Raiders are strategically positioning him for success.”
Riding on Minshew’s Prowess
With a record of starting 37 games, Minshew’s vast experience may outshine O’Connell’s familiarity with the current roster. Despite the Raiders seemingly favoring Minshew, O’Connell’s chances for competition are still quite high.
“Even though O’Connell might have more upside than Minshew, the latter has proven he can deliver results. I believe if the Raiders want to foster competition, the position should go to Minshew, who has demonstrated competitive prowess,” Ross affirmed.
Minshew’s track record includes an impressive 7-6 as a starter last season. However, his overall career boasts a less inspiring 15-22 record. While he hasn’t completely proven himself, Minshew might get the first-team reps when training camp begins due to his existing experience.
The Aidan O’Connell Factor
Despite the evident Minshew favoritism, O’Connell still has a fighting chance to secure the starting role, partly because Raiders’ head coach Antonio Pierce has always spoken well of him. On the downside, O’Connell potentially lacks support from General Manager Tom Telesco, who did not draft him.
While Minshew appears more tactful with the football and exhibits greater athleticism, O’Connell has a stronger arm, a trait not to be lightly dismissed.
Inference for the Season Opener
In conclusion, considering the need to compete robustly for the playoffs, it is highly likely Minshew will be the starting quarterback on Week 1. He appears to present a lesser risk option. However, O’Connell will not be written off easily and will be provided with every possible opportunity to demonstrate his worth.