After Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr of nine years said his goodbyes yesterday, another organization came forward not wanting to say hello. Zach Keefer, who covers the Indianapolis Colts for the athletemay make a strong statement.
Given that owner Jim Irsay’s organization has denounced these veteran players since Andrew Luck’s retirement in 2019, it makes sense why they wouldn’t trade Carr.
- Carson Wentz
- Jacoby Brissett
- Matt Ryan
- Nick Falls
- Philip Rivers
A very uninspired roster, and with the Colts having their fourth overall draft pick – they’re in a prime position to take a future quarterback. However, it’s time to look at other possible destinations for the (supposed) former Raider.
Derek Carr to the New England Patriots?
As many people within Raider Nation might not like, the “Patriot Way” walked to Las Vegas. The two organizations now have deep connections with each other. Last season, the Silver and Black traded, at the moment, rookie Jarrett Stidham. Stidham is familiar with the system, but some soon forget it Mack Jones was still the apple of coach Josh McDaniels’ eye even after his Week 15 30-24 win over the New England Patriots. A trade involving quarterbacks is likely to happen, as Patriots coach Bill Belichick hasn’t spoken about Mack Jones lately.
Belichick has never been known for much emotion in press conferences. However, one might infer that his refusal to say “yes” here shows that the young quarterback might be on his way to a veteran caller – like Derek Carr.
Green Bay Packers
The destination few have talked about is the frozen tundra. The Green Bay Packers organization is once again being held hostage by Aaron Rodgers in the off-season. He left the media hanging at his last press conference of the season – just like last year.
Should Rodgers retire, it leaves former first-round pick Jordan Love at the helm. Love showed flashes, but with a strong roster – Packers will likely be looking to bring in a veteran signal caller. However, for a team looking to win now, the Packers can forgo the good assets of the Raiders’ veterans.
Baltimore Crows
Another out-of-the-box destination for Derek Carr is the Baltimore Ravens. Ravens starting quarterback for Mar Jackson has yet to receive a new contract from the organization, as he is set to become an unrestricted free agent this year. However, with Jackson’s injury condition and complex contract negotiations, the Ravens could look in another direction. If Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta allowed Mar Jackson to hit free agency (or apply the franchise tag), that would leave a huge void behind the center. In addition, trade can occur between the two organizations involving Lamar. However, like the Packers, Coach John Harbaugh’s team is in winning mode now and can take Derek Carr’s extravagance if need be.
$33 million a year for Derek Carr: “It just doesn’t happen,” says Rich Eisen
* Top image via USA Today Sports