The Las Vegas Raiders are going to look a lot different on offense in 2023. For the first time since 2013, they are going to have a starting quarterback that isn’t Derek Carr. Las Vegas waived Carr a few days after the Super Bowl before his contract became guaranteed after nine seasons as the team’s starter.
Carr leaves behind some rather large shoes to fill. During some tumultuous times in the last decade, he was the constant that the franchise could turn. The Raiders did little to help him succeed, as they had the worst defense in the NFL during his tenure as the starter, but he did everything to keep the team afloat.
After a career season in 2021, Carr struggled in 2022. Head coach Josh McDaniels will now look to find a quarterback that better fits his system. Carr never really got comfortable in 2022 even with his collegiate teammate, All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams, being acquired.
With Adams, wide receiver Hunter Renfrow and tight end Darren Waller in the mix, the Raiders do have an attractive situation for a quarterback. Who could they have their sights set on to take over the offense?
A former NFL executive that spoke to NFL Analysis Network believes that the Raiders will use their first-round pick on a quarterback. However, before that player is drafted, the team will sign a veteran and Taylor Heinicke is squarely on their radar.
“The Raiders are likely going to draft a quarterback, but they also want a veteran in place. Taylor Heinecke is one name that they are very much expected to pursue.”
Heinicke would be the perfect bridge quarterback for the Raiders to pursue. He has shown the last two seasons with the Washington Commanders that he is capable of helping keep a team competitive and afloat.
In 24 starts with the Commanders, Heinicke went 12-11-1. He may not have the strongest arm and isn’t the most athletic player, but his teammates love him. They play hard for him every snap and Las Vegas should be able to win some games with him starting given the supporting cast around him.
It would not be surprising to see Heinicke land a one or two-year deal and be the starter out of the gate. He will hold the job until things falter and then be replaced by whichever prospect it is that the Raiders select.
