Las Vegas Raiders: 15 most beloved fan favorites in franchise history
(2014-Present). Derek Carr. 12. player. 28. . QB
Most beloved Raiders of all time: 12. Derek Carr
The current quarterback of the Raiders in Derek Carr is a very popular player in Raider Nation. Perhaps some of that is due to his extended role on HBO’s Hard Knocks that captivated a national audience. More likely, it is due to his role in bringing the Raiders out of one of the darkest periods in team history.
Selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft, Carr instantly became the face of the franchise. Out of a small school like Fresno State, Carr did not garner the same amount of hype as players from bigger schools like Alabama and Oregon. Regardless, Carr took the helm and helped guide the Raiders out of their losing ways.
In 2016, Carr was clutch and led seven comeback efforts en route to a 12-4 record and the team’s first playoff appearance since 2002. Unfortunately, Carr broke his ankle in Week 16 against the Indianapolis Colts and lost his chance at playing in the playoffs, possibly even an NFL MVP award.
Carr’s leadership, positivity and talent all combine to create a popular enigma for Raiders fans to root for. Some criticize him and claim he is too soft to lead this team, but entering year two with Jon Gruden, expectations are high for Carr.
In 2019, Carr is expected to become the franchise’s all-time leading passer. Should he help the Raiders back to the playoffs, he will surely cement his spot as one of the biggest fan favorites in the team’s history.