On Monday, Raiders general manager Dave Ziegler gave a surprising and disappointing update about the organization’s future at quarterback. His comments imply they will not acquire a franchise QB this offseason.
“We’re in charge of filling the most important position on the team. There’s some pressure that comes along with that, and however we fill it, it doesn’t mean we’re going to have an immediate answer this year,” Ziegler told Barstool Sports’ “Bussin’ with the Boys.”
The Raiders, who recently released nine-year veteran Derek Carr, have one QB under contract for 2023, Chase Garbers, per Spotrac. Garbers has never thrown a pass in a regular-season game.
Ziegler’s lack of urgency is perplexing. He should seem more frantic about finding the team’s next starting QB.
Perhaps he’s lowering expectations. The Raiders already lost out on Tom Brady after he retired and could miss on Aaron Rodgers if he does the same after his four-day retreat or wants to be traded elsewhere.
Although there are other solid veteran options like Jimmy Garoppolo and Mac Jones, neither is on the same tier as AFC West rivals Patrick Mahomes or Justin Herbert.
If Las Vegas feels uncomfortable about its current options, it should draft a QB. ESPN’s Jordan Reid gave four QBs a first-round grade (Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, Will Levis and Anthony Richardson).
The Raiders have the No. 7 pick in the draft, possibly within range to select one, but they might want to move up and secure a better position.
The Cardinals, who have the No. 3 pick, could be a trade partner since it has Kyler Murray.
A rookie QB may not develop into the franchise savior immediately, but it’s better than having no plan.
