Raiders: What can we expect from Derek Carr in 2022?
By Brad Weiss
The Las Vegas Raiders are loaded in terms of weapons on offense heading into 2022, so what can we expect from QB Derek Carr?
Most offseason, the questions surrounding Raiders quarterback Derek Carr are whether or not he will be with the team for the upcoming season. Since Jon Gruden came out of retirement before the 2018 season, it seems every offseason the Raiders are linked in a trade, or in the draft to replace No. 4, signaling the end of Carr’s run as the starter for the franchise.
This offseason, that narrative has changed, as since the team brought in Carr’s best friend, Davante Adams, to be their star wideout, there is no question Carr will be the man under center in 2022. In fact, with his new extension, the signs are that the franchise will be sticking with Carr for the long haul, which has put to bed the rumors of anybody else starting for the Silver and Black next season.
Now, we can turn our attention to what we can expect from Carr in 2022, and I believe he is in for a monster year.
Expect a career year from Raiders QB Derek Carr in 2022
The stars are lining up for Carr to have his best season as a pro this upcoming season, especially with the arrival of Adams. Having that kind of relationship with your WR1 is going to go a long way, even for someone who is starting for the ninth season in a row.
Carr also has a dynamic backfield behind him, as Brandon Bolden was brought in to join Kenyan Drake and Josh Jacobs, while Darren Waller returns as one of the best tight ends in the NFL. The wideout spot is not only Adams, either, as the group boasts Hunter Renfrow, who had a breakout season in 2021, and depth players like Demarcus Robinson, Bryan Edwards, and Mack Hollins
The bottom line is, I would expect Carr to eclipse the 5,000-yard mark for the first time in his career, as well as rack up more than 30 touchdown passes for only the second time. In addition, a return trip to the playoffs should be in the cards, only this time, Carr notches his first playoff victory, and possibly more.