Raiders’ Quarterback Crisis Deepens After Minshew’s Injury
The Las Vegas Raiders’ already troubled quarterback situation took a turn for the worse during their 29-19 loss to the Denver Broncos on Sunday. Gardner Minshew III, who had been filling in as the starting quarterback, suffered a broken collarbone, ending his season. This injury left the Raiders scrambling for a solution as Desmond Ridder, who joined the team just over a month ago from the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad, took over the role. Ridder played his third game as a Raider, completing 5-of-10 passes for 64 yards, but also took two sacks and lost his second fumble of the season.
Ridder’s Adjustment and Potential as a Starter
Ridder, still learning the Raiders’ offense and building chemistry with his new teammates, may be the only healthy quarterback on the active roster heading into Week 12. His performance thus far has been inconsistent, and with the Raiders facing a tough matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday, the coaching staff will need to prepare him quickly. Despite his lack of experience with the team, Ridder could be called upon as the third different quarterback to start for the Raiders this season.
O’Connell’s Potential Return
Aidan O’Connell, who had been starting before Minshew due to a broken thumb injury, might be another option. Coach Antonio Pierce stated that O’Connell would be designated to return to practice this week, with plans for him to participate in the team’s walkthrough. There is hope that O’Connell could be ready to play by Friday’s game against the Chiefs. However, it remains unclear if he’ll be fully prepared in time to step in as the starter.
Raiders’ Possible Pursuit of Daniel Jones
As the Raiders’ quarterback depth continues to thin, speculation has grown that the team may aggressively pursue former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones. Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio previously suggested the Raiders might have promised Jones immediate playing time, a possibility that is now even more likely given Minshew’s injury. The Raiders may look to add Jones to their roster as a potential solution to their quarterback dilemma.
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