Oakland Raiders vs. Arizona Cardinals: Five Things To Watch

May 31, 2016; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Connor Cook (8) throws a pass at organized team activities at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
May 31, 2016; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Connor Cook (8) throws a pass at organized team activities at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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How will Connor Cook perform?

May 31, 2016; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Connor Cook (8) throws a pass at organized team activities at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
May 31, 2016; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Connor Cook (8) throws a pass at organized team activities at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Reggie McKenzie made an aggressive move in the 2016 NFL draft, trading up in the fourth-round to select Connor Cook. At the time, there were mixed opinions on whether or not it was a good decision, but the only way to really find that out is by Cook’s performance on the field.

The Michigan State rookie got off to a slow start at training camp, struggling to move the offense downfield, with some accuracy issues plaguing him. But over the last few days before the first preseason game, Cook has made some positive strides.

Word out of camp is that he has looked much more comfortable operating the offense, and the timing couldn’t be better, because he’ll be put to the test against the Cardinals.

Cook and McGloin will likely split the majority of the first game. Will Cook show that he can be the backup quarterback of the future? Or perhaps he can play well enough to boost his trade value, and to get McKenzie a return on investment. Whatever the end goal is, Cook performing well is the key.