Raiders Set to Release QB Gardner Minshew

The Las Vegas Raiders have reportedly informed quarterback Gardner Minshew of his impending release, a move that will significantly alter the team’s quarterback landscape. With Minshew’s departure, Aidan O’Connell stands as the only quarterback on the roster with any NFL playing experience. This decision comes after a challenging season for the Raiders, who finished with a disappointing 4-13 record.

Impact of Minshew’s Release

Gardner Minshew, 28, joined the Raiders last offseason following a Pro Bowl appearance in 2023 with the Indianapolis Colts. During his time with the Raiders, Minshew split quarterback duties with O’Connell, making nine starts and appearing in ten games. He completed 66.3% of his passes, averaging 201.3 yards per game, but struggled with a career-low 6.6 yards per attempt. Minshew’s performance included nine touchdowns and ten interceptions, contributing to the Raiders’ 2-7 record in games he started.

O’Connell’s Performance

Aidan O’Connell also had a challenging season, participating in nine games and making seven starts. He completed 63.4% of his passes for an average of 179.1 yards per game, matching Minshew’s 6.6 yards per attempt. O’Connell threw eight touchdowns and four interceptions, leading the Raiders to a 2-5 record in his starts. With Minshew’s exit, the pressure now falls on O’Connell to step up as the primary quarterback.

Future Quarterback Prospects

Despite Minshew’s release, the Raiders are prioritizing an upgrade at the quarterback position this offseason. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Pete Carroll, the team is looking to rebound from last season’s struggles. The Raiders finished 29th in the NFL, averaging just 18.2 points per game. To address this, they hold the No. 6 pick in the upcoming NFL draft, where two highly regarded first-round quarterbacks are projected to be available: Cam Ward from Miami and Shedeur Sanders from Colorado.

Potential Free Agent Targets

In addition to the draft, the Raiders may explore free agency for potential quarterback acquisitions. Names like Sam Darnold and Aaron Rodgers have surfaced as possible targets, adding intrigue to the team’s offseason strategy. The Raiders’ front office faces a critical decision-making period as they aim to revitalize their offense and improve their overall performance.

Conclusion

The release of Gardner Minshew marks a significant turning point for the Raiders as they look to reshape their quarterback situation. With Aidan O’Connell as the only experienced option on the roster, the team must act swiftly to secure a reliable signal-caller for the upcoming season. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Raiders to see how they navigate this pivotal moment in their franchise’s history. For more details, check the original article.