Las Vegas Raiders: Derek Carr entering most important NFL season
By Brad Weiss
The Las Vegas Raiders have a solid quarterback in Derek Carr, and entering his eighth season as the starter, he embarks on the most important year of his career.
Entering his eighth season as the starting quarterback for the Raiders franchise, Derek Carr has accomplished a ton in his career. He has shattered Raiders career passing records, has had plenty of exciting comeback victories, and showed just how tough he is, even playing with a broken back.
Despite all of this, Carr has yet to play in a playoff game, something that is not lost on the fan base. Across the last two seasons, it appeared all of that would change, as the Raiders got out to strong starts in both 2019 and 2020, only to falter late.
For Carr, not only is he entering his eighth season, but his most important one, as another year outside of the playoffs could have the kind of ripple effect that would end his run with the team. He has already stated that he would rather retire than play for any other franchise, so getting this team to the playoffs is paramount in 2021.
Raiders cannot afford another late-season collapse
Across the last two seasons, Carr has been outstanding statistically, cutting down on his interceptions, completing passes at a very high level, and throwing for over 4,000 yards. However, he has also seen his team get out to strong starts, looking like playoff contenders, and then faltering down the stretch.
It has not been all his fault, as the defense was terrible last season, and definitely lost them games late. But as the starting quarterback, most of the blame falls on your shoulders, and Carr has done a nice job taking all the hits, and coming back the next week ready to roll.
Now, the time has come for him to put some more wins together, as he has everything else on his resume to make him an all-time great for the Silver and Black. The front office revamped the defense this offseason, as well as the offensive line, so while there are question marks, getting production from Carr is not one of them.
With all of the questions, this is his most important season, as he has to take this franchise under his wing and lead it to the postseason.
Not to say the previous seasons have been Carr’s fault, as he has played well enough to get his team to the playoffs, but this season is so different. Based on his contract, the players around him, and the timetable for Jon Gruden, the Raiders have to win and make the playoffs in 2021, or else there could be major turnover heading into next offseason.