Column: Why it's time for the Raiders to move on from Derek Carr
The magic number is nine. Yes, nine. In the last five games, Derek Carr has thrown nine interceptions. And with each one, he put the nail in the coffin that is/was his Raiders career. it's time for the Raiders to move on from Carr, and anything contrary would be a mistake on the organization's part. […]
The magic number is nine.
Yes, nine.
In the last five games, Derek Carr has thrown nine interceptions. And with each one, he put the nail in the coffin that is/was his Raiders career. it's time for the Raiders to move on from Carr, and anything contrary would be a mistake on the organization's part.
Objectively speaking, Carr is a fine quarterback. But that is part of the team's problem, he will never be anything more.
For every step forward he takes, there are five game stretches like the one he's on where his decision-making is head-scratching at best.
Carr has led the Raiders to two postseason appearances since he was drafted in 2014. Those two playoff appearances are the only two for the franchise since 2002.
Carr's most impressive season had to be 2021. He was a leader on a team that faced countless uncertainties and still managed to get them to the playoffs.
But the NFL is a zero-sum game.
And in that zero-sum game, the question always becomes: What have you done for me lately?
If you are the Raiders asking that question to Carr, the answer is clear — little.
He's been responsible for the second-half debacles, one-score losses, and critical interceptions in some of the most inopportune moments.
Exhibit A:
Yes, the playcalling has been inconsistent. And yes, Josh McDaniels isn't an outstanding coach. But a good quarterback should be able to split the difference. He should also be able to elevate an offense. Carr seemingly can't do either.
It's time for the Raiders to move on from Carr. That isn't to say he's a bad quarterback. He's just not the quarterback that will take the Raiders to the next level.
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Feature image via Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
