During training camp, the Las Vegas Raiders are conducting a quarterback competition between Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew. Coach Antonio Pierce wants to see one snatch the job.
“What I see is two guys competing. I told them it’s time to make that leap,” Pierce said Friday, via the team’s official website. “Stop with the baby steps. Somebody grab the bull by the horns and be the guy, and they’re trying to do that. The competition is high.
“I think the key part about it is regardless of who’s in, the offense is trying to be as efficient and as effective as possible. So, you’ve got the offensive line in there with those guys and you’re trying to build that continuity with our wide receivers, and I think both quarterbacks are doing it.”
Pierce entered offseason workouts giving O’Connell, who started 10 games as a rookie, the first reps. The second-year quarterback has received backing from coaches and teammates, and if he shows development after an up-and-down rookie season, he could snag the gig.
Minshew’s contract — two years, $25 million — was the type of deal a veteran bridge QB generally receives. The 28-year-old proved last year that he can step in and run an offense. There might be some highs and lows, but Minshew is generally not going to sink his club. The question is whether he can prove to Pierce during camp that he’s a better point guard than O’Connell.
The Raiders offense has intriguing pieces, from receivers Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers to tight ends Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer to a solid offensive line. The biggest question is under center, the most vital position in sports.
Pierce’s desire for one of the QBs to set himself apart early makes sense. It would allow that quarterback to build continuity with the rest of the offense. As John Madden said, “If you have two quarterbacks, you actually have none.” Pierce wants his singular quarterback.
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