The Las Vegas Raiders are intensifying their search for a franchise quarterback, and according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, they are exploring both free-agent options and potential trade targets to fill the void under center.
After two seasons of quarterback instability, the Raiders appear determined to find a reliable veteran signal-caller who can stabilize the offense and lead the team forward.
Raiders Surveying the Free-Agent Market
Several veteran quarterbacks are currently available in free agency, giving the Raiders some intriguing options if they prefer to sign rather than trade for their next starter.
Among the notable names on the market:
- Sam Darnold – After a career-reviving year with the Minnesota Vikings, Darnold has positioned himself as a viable bridge starter for a team in need of a steady presence under center.
- Russell Wilson or Justin Fields – The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to keep one and part ways with the other, meaning either Wilson or Fields could be available to sign outright.
- Aaron Rodgers – While unlikely, Rodgers’ name continues to surface in rumors. However, most reports suggest the New York Giants are more actively pursuing him than the Raiders.
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Exploring the Trade Market
If none of the free-agent options satisfy Las Vegas, the trade market presents another path to securing a starting-caliber quarterback.
One notable target was Matthew Stafford, whom the Raiders were reportedly willing to offer up to $100 million over two years before he ultimately chose to remain with the Los Angeles Rams. This aggressive approach signals that Las Vegas is willing to invest heavily to solve its quarterback dilemma.
With Stafford off the table, the Raiders could pivot to other potential trade targets, including:
- Kirk Cousins
- Mac Jones
Las Vegas’ Quarterback Carousel Continues
The Raiders’ struggles at quarterback date back to their 2022 decision to part ways with longtime starter Derek Carr, who had held the position for nine seasons. Since then, Las Vegas has cycled through five different starters in just two years, including:
- Gardner Minshew
- Aidan O’Connell
- Desmond Ridder
- Jimmy Garoppolo
- Brian Hoyer
With constant turnover at the most important position, the Raiders are desperate to find a stable, high-level quarterback who can elevate their talented roster, which includes stars like Davante Adams and Josh Jacobs.
What’s Next for the Raiders?
With NFL free agency and trade discussions heating up, the Raiders are expected to be aggressive in their pursuit of a new franchise quarterback. Whether they sign a veteran, trade for a proven starter, or select a rookie in the draft, one thing is clear—Las Vegas is done with temporary fixes and is looking for a long-term solution at the position.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Raiders GM Tom Telesco and head coach Antonio Pierce to see how they address this critical need—and whether the next move finally delivers stability under center.