Following a 36-22 defeat to the Carolina Panthers, speculation arose about whether the Las Vegas Raiders would change their starting quarterback.
Gardner Minshew, who had been leading the team, faced increasing scrutiny after the team’s underwhelming performance. Despite rookie quarterback Aidan O’Connell stepping in late during the game and leading a touchdown drive, head coach Antonio Pierce kept his decision about the starting role unclear.
During a post-game press conference, Pierce stated:
“We’ve got to get with the players and just evaluate everything first,” emphasizing the need to assess the team’s overall performance.
Pierce’s press conference was delayed for over an hour, highlighting the significant discussions happening within the coaching staff after the team’s second loss of the season, leaving their record at 1-2.
However, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Raiders are sticking with Minshew as the starting quarterback for the time being. Despite O’Connell’s solid performance in relief, completing 9 of 12 passes for 82 yards and a touchdown, Minshew will remain the team’s starter.
Minshew completed 18 of 28 passes for 214 yards, one touchdown, and one interception during the game, but the team had already fallen behind by a large margin before O’Connell’s entry.
Minshew has struggled this season, with three touchdowns and three interceptions over three games, alongside being sacked 11 times. His inconsistent performance has raised concerns, though the team appears to believe in his ability to improve.
O’Connell, who had a promising rookie season and impressed last year, will continue to be a backup, for now. The Raiders’ next game is against the Cleveland Browns, offering Minshew another opportunity to prove his worth.
