The question is simple; who will be the quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022?
All signs point to it being Derek Carr despite entering the final year of his contract. New head coach Josh McDaniels talked about how excited he is to work with Carr and the offense was very productive with him under center.
Carr has been very productive and efficient over the last three years, averaging 7.8 yards per attempt. During the 2021 season, he had a career-high in passing yards (4,804) and six game-winning drives. He wasn’t perfect, but he led the Raiders to a 10-7 record and their first playoff berth since 2016.
But is there any chance the Raiders go in a different direction next year?
In a recent article by ESPN insider Field Yates, he predicted the starting quarterback for all 32 teams next season. Not surprisingly, Derek Carr was the answer for the Raiders. Here is what Yates had to say about Carr returning to Las Vegas next season:
“Carr has played some awesome football in recent years. The storyline surrounding him this offseason could be how many millions he signs an extension for, as 2022 is the final year of his current deal.”
The only way it would make sense for the Raiders to move on from Carr is if they could get a clear upgrade. And unfortunately, the only two names that could be available are Deshaun Watson and Aaron Rodgers.
Watson is still in legal trouble and it’s unclear when he will be able to play again. Even if he is eligible the Raiders would have to surrender significant draft capital for him.
As for Rodgers, it feels more and more likely that he will either retire or return to Green Bay for another season or two. It just doesn’t seem likely that the Packers are going to trade him, even if he does want out. And would the Raiders even have the trade assets to acquire him? The answer is probably no.
Outside of those two names, there is no one available in free agency or in the draft that is a big step up from Carr. And for that reason, expect Carr to be back in 2022, hopefully with a contract extension. He gives them the best chance to win in 2022 and beyond. That’s why he’ll be back in the Silver and Black for Year 9.
