The Las Vegas Raiders’ QB Quandary: Exploring the Future with Sam Darnold
The Las Vegas Raiders are facing a critical crossroads in their franchise’s future, particularly at the quarterback position. With a disastrous 2-11 record, tied for the worst in the NFL alongside the New York Giants, the team’s leadership will soon have to decide whether to continue building around its current options or make a dramatic shift. As of now, neither Gardner Minshew nor Aidan O’Connell has proven to be the answer at quarterback. Both were given their opportunities to start this season, but neither took hold of the job, leaving the Raiders in a difficult position.
The Quarterback Situation in Las Vegas
In a season of struggles, the quarterback position has been a major point of frustration for the Raiders. Minshew, who was brought in as a potential solution to the team’s quarterback woes, has shown flashes of promise but has failed to deliver consistent, high-level play. O’Connell, a rookie, was given a chance to prove himself, but like Minshew, he couldn’t provide the spark the Raiders desperately needed. The inconsistent play at the most important position on the field has contributed significantly to the team’s struggles.
While both Minshew and O’Connell have had their moments, neither has taken control of the position in a way that inspires confidence in the Raiders’ future. As a result, the organization seems to be looking elsewhere for answers.
The Draft: A Glimmer of Hope with Shedeur Sanders?
With the NFL draft roughly four and a half months away, the Raiders will have an opportunity to reshape their quarterback room. The biggest prize in the 2024 draft class is Shedeur Sanders, the star quarterback from the Colorado Buffaloes. Sanders has drawn considerable attention for his dynamic playmaking ability, leadership, and poise under pressure. Many expect him to be the first overall pick, which means the team with the worst record in the league will have the first shot at drafting him.
However, if the Raiders don’t finish with the worst record—or if they simply don’t get the top pick—their hopes of landing Sanders may evaporate. In that case, Las Vegas will need to pivot to other avenues to address its quarterback issues.
A Potential Solution in Free Agency: Sam Darnold
Enter Sam Darnold, the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback who is set to become a free agent in March 2024. Darnold, once regarded as a top prospect after being drafted by the New York Jets in 2018, has seen his fair share of ups and downs in his career. However, there are signs that he could be hitting his stride with the Vikings, making him an intriguing option for teams in need of a quarterback.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report highlighted the Raiders as one of the top destinations for Darnold, pointing out that the team could be in the market for a proven quarterback to stabilize its offense. Darnold, who has shown flashes of the talent that made him a top draft pick, could provide the Raiders with a steadying influence under center. While he may not be the high-ceiling superstar that the Raiders would dream of, Darnold could be the veteran presence the team needs to move forward in the short term.
The Raiders’ Dilemma: Build for the Future or Stabilize for Now?
For the Las Vegas Raiders, the clock is ticking. The 2024 NFL draft will offer the opportunity to select a franchise-altering quarterback, but only if the team is fortunate enough to secure a high draft pick. If the Raiders don’t land the top spot or if they believe that Shedeur Sanders is not the right fit, then free agency could become their best option.
Sam Darnold, with his combination of potential and experience, could be the answer the Raiders are looking for—at least for the time being. However, if Las Vegas is serious about building a sustainable contender, the organization will likely need to invest in a long-term solution at quarterback. Whether that comes via the draft or free agency remains to be seen.
In the coming months, all eyes will be on the Raiders’ quarterback decisions. With the franchise facing another difficult season and a pivotal offseason on the horizon, how the team handles its QB situation could determine the course of the franchise for years to come. The future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Raiders need a solution at quarterback, and they need it soon.
