Las Vegas Raiders: Derek Carr should have his best year yet in 2021

Las Vegas Raiders: Derek Carr should have his best year yet in 2021

Looking Back

Let’s look back at his numbers from 2020. Carr posted an impressive completion percentage of 67.3 percent in 517 attempts. He also had a career-high 4103 passing yards and a 71 QBR, while throwing 27 touchdowns and nine interceptions.

We can’t forget that Carr also sustained a rough groin injury in Week 15 which led him to leave the game early. He played through this injury the next week, though, and let’s be honest, there are few things Gruden loves more than a player who shows toughness by playing through an injury.

The previously mentioned stats weren’t just a one-time thing, either. Under Gruden. Carr has averaged about 4,063 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and a 68.9 completion percentage. Compare this to his four-year average before Gruden, where he averaged 3,672 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and a 61.4 completion percentage, and the growth and improvement are obvious.

These numbers are important because, under Gruden’s leadership, Carr has been able to improve his game each year. He’s become a better, more focused quarterback. He makes reads and adjustments pre-snap, essentially functioning as a coach on the field. He’s also found ways to use his legs outside of the pocket, which is an area of his game that wasn’t the same after his leg injury in 2016.