The Las Vegas Raiders have faced challenges in the quarterback department this year, with Jimmy Garoppolo, Aidan O’Connell, and Brian Hoyer all taking the field. While the team prioritizes finding a new head coach and general manager for the upcoming season, addressing the quarterback position is also crucial.
One option for the Raiders is to explore the draft, but they might need to trade up for a top-tier quarterback. Alternatively, they could seek a short-term solution in free agency. There are speculations that Russell Wilson of the Denver Broncos is likely to be released after the season.
Despite a performance that may not match his past standards since joining Denver, Wilson managed to throw 26 touchdowns with just eight interceptions this season, presenting an improvement for the Raiders. Bovada suggests that the Raiders are among the favored teams to acquire the nine-time Pro Bowler in the upcoming offseason.
However, a trade for Wilson is considered highly unlikely due to the remaining five years on his contract. The more plausible scenario is his outright release, allowing teams to sign him at a more affordable price.
Is Russell Wilson a Fit With Las Vegas Raiders?
What team will Russell Wilson be playing QB for next season? pic.twitter.com/BZxbXOVbgo
— Bovada (@BovadaOfficial) January 1, 2024
Russell Wilson should only be considered as a backup plan for the Raiders, given his age of 35 and declining level of performance. He is no longer as dynamic as he was in his prime, which diminishes his special qualities.
The Raiders’ primary focus should be acquiring a potential franchise quarterback through the draft. Opting for a quarterback on a rookie contract would enable the team to enhance other positions in free agency, with the added optimism that the quarterback could develop into a star.
If the Raiders are unable to move up in the draft or if a preferred quarterback is unavailable, exploring options like a trade for someone like Justin Fields from the Chicago Bears could be a sensible alternative. Wilson should be placed low on the list of quarterback choices for the Raiders, but he could be considered if more favorable opportunities do not materialize.
Aidan O’Connell Disappointed With Season
In his debut season, Aidan O’Connell, a fourth-round rookie, was unexpectedly thrust into the starting position and given ample opportunities to prove himself for a potential starting role next season. Despite showcasing a decent arm, his performance has been rather average. Across 10 appearances, he has thrown 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions, resulting in a 4-5 record in nine starts. One notable drawback has been his limited mobility.
As the team heads into Week 18 against the Broncos, this game might mark O’Connell’s final start of the season, and he reflects on a season that did not unfold as he had hoped. During a media availability on January 3, he expressed disappointment, emphasizing the mix of highs and lows throughout the season. O’Connell laments the missed opportunities to secure more victories, particularly in close games where the team was in contention until the last moments. Despite some notable wins, he is haunted by the frustration of not capitalizing on late-game opportunities, which he believes has been the primary factor affecting the team’s overall performance.