Las Vegas Raiders: Ranking players most likely to be cut or traded
1. Raiders backup QB Marcus Mariota
Savings if traded: 11.35 million
Apparently, Marcus Mariota’s one-week appearance in Week 15 against the Los Angeles Chargers and perhaps his past history enticed some teams that need a quarterback.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, clubs have a “legitimate and real interest” in Mariota.
In a separate report, those in the know and one general manager told The Athletic that the Raiders would prefer to move Mariota rather than quarterback Derek Carr.
"“Multiple sources, including one GM, told The Athletic the Raiders’ preference is to move Marcus Mariota and keep Carr, unless someone makes them a ridiculous offer for Carr. Mariota has been mentioned as a possibility in New England, with the hope he could become for the Patriots what Ryan Tannehill has been for Mike Vrabel in Tennessee.”"
The Athletic’s source named the Patriots as a possible destination for Mariota, but the Washington Football Team, Chicago Bears and Indianapolis Colts could pursue a quarterback as well. None of those teams have a clear-cut starter and hold the No. 19, No. 20 and No. 21 picks in the draft, respectively.
Clearly out of range for a top quarterback prospect in April, the Football Team, Bears and Colts may have checked in on Mariota. Nevertheless, those clubs will likely attempt to acquire Philadelphia Eagles’ Carson Wentz and New York Jets’ Sam Darnold first—mainly because of past production from the former and potential in the latter.
Next. Las Vegas Raiders: 3 trade destinations for Marcus Mariota. dark
Still, in a league that values dual-threat signal-callers, Mariota checked that box against the Chargers, throwing for 226 yards, a touchdown, an interception and rushing for 88 yards and a score.
Here’s a key element. Gruden won’t let go of Nathan Peterman. The veteran quarterback signed with the Raiders’ practice squad in 2018 and just signed a new deal worth up to $2.78 million. Vegas also signed Kyle Sloter to a reserve/future contract.
With Peterman around, Gruden will likely make a strong effort to trade Mariota and clear $11.35 million off the books.