Will Ridder Start? Raiders QB Outlook 2023
The Raiders have a BIG question mark at quarterback heading into 2023. Will they go with the veteran, Jimmy Garoppolo, or give the keys to the young gun, Aidan O'Connell? It's a question that has fans and analysts alike scratching their heads. Let's break down the situation and see what we can expect from the Raiders QB room this season.
The Garoppolo Factor
Jimmy G is a known commodity. He's been a starter in the league for years, and he's proven he can win games. But he's also injury-prone and has a history of inconsistency. The Raiders are hoping he can be a bridge to the future, providing a steady presence while the young guys develop.
Problem is, Jimmy G might not be the long-term answer. He's 31 years old, and his contract is only for two years. The Raiders will be looking for a long-term solution soon.
The O'Connell Hype
Aidan O'Connell, the rookie out of Purdue, is generating some buzz. He had a great college career, showing a lot of promise in the pocket. But the NFL is a whole different animal, and it's still unclear if he's ready to start.
There's a lot to like about O'Connell. He's got the size, the arm, and the intelligence to be a successful NFL QB. But he's got to learn the offense, build chemistry with his receivers, and get acclimated to the speed of the game.
So, will he start? It's a tough call. The Raiders need to figure out what they want to do with their QB situation. If they want to compete now, they'll likely go with Garoppolo. But if they're thinking long-term, they could give O'Connell a chance to prove himself.
The Bottom Line
The Raiders' QB situation is far from settled. There's a lot of uncertainty surrounding who will start, and how the offense will perform. It's a situation to watch closely as training camp gets underway. One thing's for sure, though: the Raiders are hoping for a breakout season from their quarterback, whoever it may be. Let's just hope they don't end up with a bunch of "what ifs" at the end of the year.