Matt McGloin
Just one round after he had made a head-turning decision in the selection of former Illinois defensive end Jihad Ward in the second round, McKenzie again had Raiders fans scratching their heads when he traded up to the top of the fourth round to select former Michigan State quarterback Connor Cook. With Carr obviously cemented in as the starter, Cook is expected to work his way into a primary backup role ahead of four-year quarterback Matt McGloin.
McGloin, a former UDFA out of Penn State, has had some success at the NFL level despite his limited opportunities, as he has completed 58 percent of his passes for 1,818 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions in 10 games. Because of his experience, McGloin is the favorite to reclaim his spot as the No. 2 quarterback on the roster, but he will be demoted or even pushed out of Oakland if Cook is able to reveal his potential early.
Cook, a three-year starter at Michigan State, is a proven winner under center, as he left the Spartans with the most wins by a quarterback in school history (34-5), per MSUSpartans.com. Also, Cook completed 58 percent of his passes for a school record of 9,194 yards and 71 touchdowns.
In addition to his character concerns, Cook’s ability to remain consistent and accurate had a negative effect on his draft stock, but falling to the third round has surely given him something to prove as his NFL career continues. Look for Cook to do whatever it takes to prove those who doubted him that he can make it at the next level, even if it means leaving McGloin in his wake.