Las Vegas Raiders Quarterback Competition Begins in Training Camp

The Las Vegas Raiders are gearing up for an intriguing quarterback competition as they approach their 2024 training camp. The battle for the starting quarterback position is primarily expected to be between Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew II, with Anthony Brown Jr. also in the mix.

While entering his second year with the Raiders, Aidan O’Connell appears to have a slight edge going into training camp. As a rookie in 2023, O’Connell started ten games for the Raiders, posting a 5-5 record and throwing 12 touchdowns against seven interceptions. He showed promise in his final four games, throwing eight touchdowns without an interception. Head coach Antonio Pierce has praised O’Connell’s work ethic and mental toughness, noting that he’d like to see the young quarterback become more vocal on the field.

Gardner Minshew II joined the Raiders on a two-year, $25 million deal with $15 million guaranteed in free agency[1]. Minshew brings veteran experience to the quarterback room, having previously started for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Philadelphia Eagles. In 2023, he played 13 games for the Indianapolis Colts. Known for his confidence and ability to audible at the line of scrimmage, Minshew is expected to provide intense competition for the starting role.

Anthony Brown Jr., while considered a dark horse in the competition, has been impressing during organized team activities (OTAs). Coach Pierce describes him as “extremely athletic,” and Brown offers a different dynamic with his mobility and ability to extend plays outside the pocket.

The Raiders’ quarterbacks will benefit from a strong supporting cast, including top receivers like Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers, and an improved offensive line.

While specific dates for the opening of training camp and quarterback reporting have not been provided in the search results, NFL training camps typically open in late July. The Raiders are set to begin their training camp in Costa Mesa, California, less than a week from July 18, 2024. Quarterbacks often report a few days before the entire team, so they can be expected to arrive in Costa Mesa around July 22-23, 2024.

The competition is expected to be intense, with O’Connell and Minshew sharing first-team reps during OTAs. The Raiders may rotate both quarterbacks during the preseason, starting with O’Connell and then transitioning to Minshew, allowing the competition to continue until the regular season begins.

Quarterback Breakdowns

Aidan O’Connell, Gardner Minshew II, and Anthony Brown Jr. are the primary contenders for the starting quarterback position for the Las Vegas Raiders as they approach the 2024 training camp. Here’s a detailed look at each quarterback, including their previous teams, draft years, and positions.

Aidan O’Connell

Previous Team: O’Connell played college football at Purdue University, establishing himself as a reliable starter.

Draft Information: Selected in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Raiders, O’Connell was the 135th overall pick.

Performance: O’Connell started ten games in his rookie season (2023), achieving a 5-5 record. He threw for 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions, showcasing significant improvement in his final four games, where he threw eight touchdowns without an interception. His performance earned him praise from head coach Antonio Pierce, who noted O’Connell’s work ethic and potential for growth in leadership on the field.

Gardner Minshew II

Previous Teams: Minshew has played for several teams during his NFL career, starting with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he gained recognition as a starting quarterback. He later played for the Philadelphia Eagles and, most recently, for the Indianapolis Colts in 2023, where he appeared in 13 games.

Draft Information: Minshew was drafted by the Jaguars with the 178th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft.

Performance: Minshew is known for his confidence and ability to make quick decisions at the line of scrimmage. His experience and performance in previous seasons position him as a strong competitor for the starting role in Las Vegas. He joined the Raiders on a two-year, $25 million contract, with $15 million guaranteed, indicating the team’s commitment to utilizing his veteran presence.

Anthony Brown Jr.

Previous Team: Brown spent the 2022 season with the Baltimore Ravens, primarily on their practice squad. He had limited game experience, appearing in two games and starting one.

Draft Information: Brown was not drafted in the NFL Draft and signed as an undrafted free agent.

Performance: Despite being considered a dark horse in the quarterback competition, Brown has impressed coaches with his athleticism and mobility, which could provide a different dynamic to the Raiders’ offense. His ability to extend plays outside the pocket is notable.