Las Vegas Raiders: Curious case of Nathan Peterman

Las Vegas Raiders: Curious case of Nathan Peterman

Peterman before the Raiders

Coming out of Pitt, Peterman was thought to be a middle-of-the-road prospect, likely a career backup of sorts. However, Peterman picked up some steam late in the draft process and some scouts thought he could go even earlier. Then, ESPN analyst Jon Gruden stated that Peterman was the most pro-ready quarterback in the draft, even though this was a class with Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson.

Peterman impressed during his showing at the Senior Bowl in 2017. He displayed great mobility and arm strength during the process, while already having desired size and accuracy. Gruden praised his leadership skills and football knowledge as well, however, Peterman still fell to the Bills in the fifth round.

Peterman quite notably had a rough start to his career. He was given some relief time during blowouts in 2017, prior to making his first career start in November 2017. There was controversy surrounding Peterman’s first career start because incumbent starter Tyrod Taylor was benched despite a winning record and having success.

Peterman immediately flamed out and threw five interceptions in the first half of his start and was benched for Taylor in the second half.

Peterman played a few other games for Buffalo and even appeared in a playoff game in 2017. He was then named the opening day starter for the 2018 season over 2018 first-round pick Josh Allen. Peterman was benched in Week 1 during a 47-3 loss to Baltimore while having a 0.0 passer rating.

He would be given a few more chances, probably because of his pedigree, before being released midseason in favor of midseason street free agent Matt Barkley. Peterman would sign to the Raiders practice squad later in the season and signed a futures contract with the team following the season. Yet, the truth is, Peterman was impressively awful.