AFC West quarterback rankings: Patrick Mahomes or Philip Rivers up top?
By Grant Tuttle
3. Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders
The Raiders are a little bit shaky on whether they truly like Derek Carr or not. After signing a massive deal, the Raiders reportedly debated whether or not to draft a quarterback in the first round of this year’s draft. Carr, however, has played very good football during his career at certain times; posting 32 touchdowns and almost 4,000 yards in 2015.
The Raiders are hopeful that they can get this same production at a consistent level with new targets to throw to. While the Raiders fanbase believes in Carr, I am not sure that I do.
The Raiders added Tyrell Williams and Antonio Brown to the team this offseason in the hopes of getting the most out of Carr. Williams is a big-bodied receiver who can make tough catches when the team needs them. Brown has been one of the best overall receivers in the NFL.
With uncertainty surrounding Brown’s future with the Raiders due to a bizarre helmet dispute and foot injury, it is unclear what kind of difference the new targets will make for Carr and the Raiders in the upcoming season. Chances are that Carr has a better season than last year, but that still may not be good enough.
Last season: 381/553, 69% completion, 4,049 yards, 19 touchdowns, 10 interceptions
2019-2020 projection: 353/549, 64% completion, 4,211 yards, 23 touchdowns, 13 interceptions