If there is one thing we have learned about Jon Gruden, it’s that he likes to cycle through quarterbacks. 2019 was no different as Mike Glennon, Nathan Peterman, and DeShone Kizer all served as Derek Carr’s backup at one point during the year.
The Raiders would like to continue to churn that position, potentially even bringing in a high-quality backup to push Carr, if needed. Luckily for Mike Mayock and Gruden, there are several intriguing options in free agency the team could sign to accomplish that goal.
Today, we are taking a look at four potential options the Raiders could bring in to back up Carr in 2020. So without further ado, let’s take a look at the possible names.
1. QB Marcus Mariota, Titans
Potentially the top name on the Raiders’ wishlist could be Marcus Mariota, who appears to be on his way out of Tennessee. After being benched in favor of Ryan Tannehill, Mariota could look for a fresh start on a team that could maximize his skill set.
While Mariota would love the opportunity to start once again, there just aren’t enough quarterback jobs available right now. But he could sign with the Raiders, back up Carr, and potentially restore some of his value if asked to play.
Mariota would also give the Raiders another high-upside option behind Carr if he were to struggle this season. Mariota likely won’t command a ton of money in free agency, but look for the Raiders to have interest in the former No. 2 pick in the 2015 NFL Draft.
2. QB Case Keenum, Redskins
If the Raiders are looking for a more proven backup quarterback, Case Keenum could be the most reliable option on the market. Keenum won’t be mistaken for a franchise quarterback, but his passer rating over the last three seasons sits at 89.4.
Keenum could be a perfect fit in Gruden’s offense as he has a quick release and performs well in the short passing game. Keenum could be the ideal high-end backup for Carr in 2020 at a very reasonable price.
3. QB Brett Hundley, Cardinals
Another backup that could be worth taking a shot on is Brett Hundley, who was last with the Arizona Cardinals. While Hundley has only started nine career games in the NFL, he has backed up Aaron Rodgers and Kyler Murray.
Hundley is clearly a talented player with ideal size, arm strength, and athleticism. But he needs to join a team with a head coach who is willing to help him become a more accurate passer.
Hundley shouldn’t command a ton in free agency, but he does offer more upside than some of the other quarterbacks on the roster. Expect Hundley to be a cheap option for the Raiders if they strike out on some of the other names on this list.
4. QB Teddy Bridgewater, Saints
The final option is probably the most unlikely, but undoubtedly has the highest ceiling of any of the names that have been mentioned. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is set to become a free agent in the next few weeks and would love the chance to prove that he is a franchise quarterback.
At just 27 years old, Bridgewater is starting to hit his prime. He was fantastic for the Saints last season when forced into action, winning all five of his starts. While his passing numbers were unspectacular, he is the type of player that will do anything needed to win a game.
If the Raiders wanted to bring in a player to compete with Derek Carr for the starting quarterback job, Bridgewater would be the top option. Bridgewater could be a perfect fit in Gruden’s offense due to his incredible accuracy and ball placement. However, he is likely to be the most expensive quarterback on this list.
While it’s fun to envision an open competition between Carr and Bridgewater, don’t expect this to happen as Teddy will likely command more money on the open market than the Raiders have to offer.
