Raiders QB Derek Carr is set up for a career-defining season

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JANUARY 09: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders warms up before a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Allegiant Stadium on January 9, 2022, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Chargers 35-32 in overtime. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The Las Vegas Raiders have one of the best quarterbacks in football in Derek Carr, who is entering a career-defining season in 2022.

For years, Raiders quarterback Derek Carr’s job security has always been in question. Former head coach Jon Gruden was always eyeballing the next quarterback, evidenced by acquisitions such as Christian Hackenberg, Marcus Mariota, A.J. McCarron, and Nathan Peterman.

Gruden wanted a toy to play with at the position, all while Carr continued to get better. With the regime change, there was once again questions if Carr would return for his ninth season with the Raiders.

New Head Coach Josh McDaniels has always been a big fan of Carr as he attempted to trade for him in New England. McDaniels and Ziegler gave Carr the commitment that he would be the starting quarterback after signing a 3 year extension in April.

Carr once again proved he was a top-15 quarterback last season, carrying the Raiders to the playoffs without much help aside from Hunter Renfrow down the stretch, before Waller returned hobbled in the win or go home game against the Chargers and the playoffs. Carr showed out and proved that if he has a solid defense, he would get his team to the playoffs and be a winning quarterback.

He was the undisputed leader during tragedy and controversy last season and brought a locker room that was fractured back together. Carr demonstrated top flight character and cemented his place as the face of the franchise while also throwing for the 5th most yards in the NFL to a depleted receiving corp. However, this season will define Carr’s future and his career.