Las Vegas Raiders: 5 Biggest contract burdens heading into the offseason

Derek Carr

Continuing with the theme of the dwindling 2016 draft class, quarterback Derek Carr could also be on the chopping block.

The signal-caller is without a doubt the most polarizing player on the roster. For the last couple of years, fans have argued if he’s the right man for the job. Supporters point to his status as the franchise leader in passing yards and the lack of talent surrounding him, while detractors call out his overall record and lackluster performances in cold weather.

Unfortunately, his contract doesn’t offer any more clarity to the situation either.

If Carr is cut before June 1st, Las Vegas will save $16.5 million in cap space and be on the hook for $5 million of his salary, per OTC. That’s a significant amount of savings, however, $21.5 million would make him the 10th highest-paid player at his position so that’s just the going rate for a starting quarterback that’s not on a rookie contract.

Of course, using the draft for a new gunslinger is an option but from a business perspective, is breaking in a new player at the game’s most important position during the first season in a new city the wisest idea? Then again, the money saved could be used on other areas of the roster that so desperately need it and therefore, the team’s performance could actually improve. Hopefully, by now you understand the complexity of the situation and why Carr’s contract is such a burden.

At the end of the day, Gruden’s opinion on the six-year veteran is the only one that matters and they seem to get along fine. But, in his second stint with the team, the coach has proved to be a wildcard no one really knows what he’s thinking. This could be another decision that is dependent upon what the draft board looks like in late April.