Raiders general manager Tom Telesco emphasized this spring that the team would have a genuine competition for the starting quarterback position. 2023 fourth-round pick Aidan O’Connell and free agent acquisition Gardner Minshew shared first-team reps during OTAs and minicamp, creating an intriguing situation for the upcoming summer.
O’Connell took over from Jimmy Garoppolo midway through last season, with his impressive performance in the final weeks earning endorsements from head coach Antonio Pierce. The 25-year-old was favored to start the camp at the top of the depth chart, but the team was also considering drafting a first-round rookie quarterback. Ultimately, the Raiders were unable to trade up for a top three selection to acquire a new passer.
Minshew signed a two-year, $25MM deal in March to serve as either an experienced bridge starter or a reliable backup for a rookie quarterback. Although the team initially viewed him as an insurance policy for a potential draft pick, with no new quarterbacks added, the 28-year-old now has the opportunity to compete for the starting QB spot during the summer. However, he may need to catch up during training camp.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler mentioned in a recent SportsCenter appearance that the competition between O’Connell and Minshew is intense, with O’Connell possibly holding a slight edge at this point. O’Connell’s familiarity with the team and support from wide receiver Davante Adams could be factors in his favor, even though the team has implemented a new offensive scheme under coordinator Luke Getsy. Fowler also noted that Minshew has adapted well to the team’s offense, leaving a lot to be decided in the upcoming weeks.
Fowler predicted that both O’Connell and Minshew could see playing time in preseason games, which is not typical for starting quarterbacks these days. If a clear frontrunner doesn’t emerge during training camp, Pierce may need to utilize both quarterbacks in game situations to determine the depth chart order.
O’Connell is signed to his rookie contract for three more years with minimal cap hits. On the other hand, Minshew has reasonable cap charges over the next two seasons due to void years in his deal. The Raiders will have a cost-effective quarterback duo for the 2024 season, but it remains uncertain who will be named the starter for Week 1.