Las Vegas Raiders’ new head coach, Antonio Pierce, has set a clear challenge for his quarterbacks: step up and claim the starting role with confidence.
“I’d like to see – again, I’m gonna keep saying it – somebody to just take it and say, ‘I’m the guy, AP.’ Make it clear and evident … And then we’ll make that decision at that point,” Pierce said.
The Raiders are determined to return to the NFL Playoffs after finishing the 2023 season with an 8-9 record.
The competition for the starting quarterback position is heating up between Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell.
Pierce acknowledged the difficulties of evaluating quarterbacks without full pads but remains hopeful.
“I think it’s difficult when we don’t have pads on,” AP said. “There’s a lot of things, I’m sure you saw it looked like the defense was winning. But obviously, you hope that will stop now with pads on – a little more resistant.
“But it goes back to the No. 1 thing is taking care of the ball, putting the team in a position to win. Managing the offense, understanding the operational [elements].
“You saw some situational stuff there yesterday. I think our guys are doing a good job. Both quarterbacks are really embracing it. But, again, I’ll just go back to it – somebody has to just separate from the other.”
The Raiders’ 2024 season outlook includes a push to end a Super Bowl drought that has spanned over two decades.
The team recently signed free-agent wide receiver Terrell Bynum to bolster their offense. Additionally, the Raiders plan to utilize a two-tight end set this season, featuring Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer, embracing a more physical style of play.
Bowers could very well end up becoming the best overall player from the 2024 draft class.
Pierce, who served as the interim coach in 2023, is now in his first full season at the helm.
With a reputation for quick coaching changes, the pressure is on Pierce to prove that he can handle being the man in charge.
Of course, the most important position in all of sports is quarterback and Pierce hopes either Minshew or O’Connell will step up to the plate and take the bull by the horns.
Who do you think will end up winning the starting job???