Dec 7, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) prepares to throw a pass against the San Francisco 49ers in the second quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Oakland Raiders management knew right away that quarterback Derek Carr was their man of the future. He began his career perfect, going 7-for-7 for 53 yards and a TD before throwing his first incompletion. As much as I would like to say that’s how his whole season went, I can’t, but it was the start of many flashes that proved he is ready to develop into a star.
He’s going to need coaching and the right supporting cast around him to do it consistently. And Jack Del Rio is now there in his second stint as a head coach as a huge upgrade over Dennis Allen. His quarterback rating of 76.6 wasn’t bad when you consider his supporting cast as among others, former Raiders head coach Jon Gruden is thoroughly impressed.
He said to Raiders.com of Carr, “I just love the way he took control of the football team. Looked like he was in complete control as a leader. He didn’t look like he was pressing at all. He looked like he had very good command.”
“And if they can just continue on the path that they’re on, adding good players and maybe a couple more guys to that skill set of receivers, the Raiders, once again, they can make their way back,” I’m excited for the Raiders as an ex-Oakland Raider myself. I really am impressed with Carr. I really root for him.”
Adding good players is exactly what Del Rio and G.M. Reggie McKenzie have done this offseason. The Raiders improved the defense this offseason but really built around their young quarterback. So the Raiders look like their finally going somewhere on offense as they appear to be ready to show off their Carr.
Turn the page for a closer look.
Next: Something to Building Around