Another sub-.500 season for the Raiders in 2019 meant another disappointment. They can’t just rely on added talent in order to improve their chances. They also need some incumbent players to step up.
By the same token, with these new additions to the team, several incumbents could be in danger of having their jobs taken from them. Either their starting spot or their roster spot.
None more so than these four.
QB Derek Carr
Last year was supposed to be a make-or-break season for Carr. It was also the last season in which Carr has nothing to worry about in terms of getting benched for his backup. This season the Raiders brought in Marcus Mariota and Carr figures to be on a short leash.
He’s going to have to put the team on his back and win some games even if everything around him isn’t perfect. And in this case, things will be as close to perfect as they’ve ever been for him. Carr has a stellar offensive line, solid running game, upgraded and deep receiving corps, and improved defense.
If he looks as he typically does in practice while wearing a no-contact red jersey, he should get the ball to start the season. After that, it’s step up or sit down.
[lawrence-newsletter]