Derek Carr’s time with the Las Vegas Raiders could be ending now that the team has decided to bench him for the final two games of season as it mulls moving on from the quarterback. Whether or not Carr is cut or traded early in the 2023 NFL offseason, several suitors could try to acquire the signal-caller’s services.
The 2022 season has been one of Carr’s worst with the Raiders, but the 31-year-old has been a quality starter for much of his career. Carr made three straight Pro Bowls from 2015-2017 and posted a triple-digit passer rating in both 2019 and 2020. In the 2021 season, Carr threw for 4,804 yards and led Las Vegas to the playoffs.
What will be Carr’s next team? Here’s a look at three potential destinations for the Raiders quarterback.
New York Jets
The Jets might make the most sense for Carr. Out of all the teams that are a quarterback away from being a contender, New York tops the list. The Jets have the AFC’s top-ranked defense and would likely be firmly in the playoff picture with average quarterback play.
It’s clear that New York wants to move on from Zach Wilson. Mike White has an 80.4 passer rating in seven games and might not be the answer. With a dominant defense and talented young playmakers, Carr could have his best chance to make the Super Bowl if he joins the Jets.
Washington Commanders
The Commanders have the worst quarterback situation of any team that’s in the latest playoff picture. Washington has gone back and forth between Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke, both of whom have proven to be below-average starters.
Wentz’s contract finally has no more guaranteed money following the 2022 season. Washington often isn’t shy about making splashy offseason moves, and bringing in Carr would count as one of the biggest additions for next season.
Carolina Panthers
If Carr were Carolina’s quarterback in 2022, the Panthers would probably be leading the NFC South and headed for the postseason. After giving Baker Mayfield, P.J. Walker and Sam Darnold the reins at quarterback, the Panthers would have a significant upgrade with Carr.
The Panthers already have a playoff-caliber defense. Carolina probably won’t have a high enough pick in the 2023 draft to select a top quarterback prospect, so acquiring Carr could be one of their best options moving forward.
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