After the Raiders decided to bench nine-year veteran Derek Carr for the remainder of the season, backup Jarrett Stidham shined in his first career start Sunday versus the 49ers.
The 26-year-old generated 399 yards of total offense and three touchdowns versus the league’s best defense (16.5 points/game). In the 37-34 overtime loss, he strongly connected to Pro Bowl wideout Davante Adams, who made a sensational grab late in the fourth quarter, in addition to two touchdowns.
Stidham found success in areas that Las Vegas needed more under Carr. He used his legs to extend plays while completing 67.6 percent of passes to six targets, including the injury-riddled Darren Waller and Hunter Renfrow.
In the postgame presser, head coach Josh McDaniels hinted to reporters that Stidham has a solid understanding of the playbook and took advantage of the same opportunities Carr had, per ESPN’s Paul Gutierrez.
Stidham’s relationship with McDaniels, which dates back to 2019 in New England, is likely responsible for the Auburn product’s high level of familiarity.
According to Tankathon, the eliminated Raiders (6-10) currently hold the eighth pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. With all signs pointing toward an offseason divorce with Carr, the team may consider looking to a rookie for answers at quarterback. ESPN’s three highest-rated QBs, — Bryce Young (Alabama), C.J. Stroud (Ohio State), and Will Levis (Kentucky) — are expected to go before the Raiders make their choice. Thus, Las Vegas can move up, potentially using Carr as a trade chip, give Stidham the reigns for an entire season or look elsewhere.
Stidham will have one more chance to excel when the Chiefs (13-3) come to Las Vegas on Saturday to end the Raiders’ season. He can make much more noise if he proves his first game wasn’t a fluke and again fits McDaniels’ desires.
