5 Oakland Raiders who are fighting for their future with the team
By Matt Holder
Derek Carr
The most polarizing player on Oakland’s roster is quarterback, Derek Carr. Supporters will point to the lack of talent surrounding him, and detractors bring up his record as the teams’ starter. Ultimately, there are solid arguments for both sides and the gunslinger’s contract situation brings even more ambiguity to the situation.
Carr will be a $21.5 million cap hit next season, however, the team would save $16.5 million if he is cut before June 1st. If the organization does decide to move on, of course, there is the issue of replacing him and the veteran is the 11th highest-paid player at the position so there might not be a more economical option.
Yes, the draft is one route Gruden and Mayock can go, but the Raiders won’t have a top 10 pick so they will likely have to trade up to get one of the top guys.
The best way for Carr to end any conversations about his future is to finish the season with three strong performances. Throughout his career, the quarterback has played in some big games but from a personal standpoint, the remaining games on the schedule could be his most important. Good outings to end the year would allow Carr to show he can do more with less and play well in the cold.