Raiders quarterback Derek Carr has seen four coaching regimes during his time in Oakland, and with it, multiple offensive systems. He’s lacked the continuity that’s universally considered a vital aspect of NFL success.
That could be one reason why Carr’s career has been so uneven. Carr started every game as a rookie, was an MVP candidate in 2016 and struggled in 2017, leading many to question whether he’s good enough for his current coach and quarterback connoisseur, Jon Gruden.
But this is Carr’s second go at running Gruden’s offense, after surviving an offseason rampant with rumors of Carr’s departure or demotion. Now that he can focus on running the 2019 Raiders, Carr is ready to build on what he and Gruden started last year.
Here’s what Carr said about his knowledge of Gruden’s playbook from Raiders organized team activities Tuesday, according to the Mercury News’ Matt Schneidman:
“I thought [last year], ‘Yeah, I’ve got this.’ Standing here now, oh my gosh — I’m at another planet, you know? It’s nice. It’s the second time in my career I get to say the same things, back to back. To look at those guys that have had really long, successful careers … being in that same system. I’m talking about things with Coach Gruden that other guys are like, ‘Hold on, what does that mean?'”
Carr mentioned this is the second time he’s had this luxury. The first was during his MVP-caliber season in 2016, his second campaign with former Raiders offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave.
Carr is rightfully happy to start the season at the helm of the Raiders once again and with the same offense, but the pressure is always on in the NFL. In Oakland, what was supposed to be a rebuilding year turned into a reload of sorts, especially after the acquisition of wide receiver Antonio Brown.
The three-time Pro Bowl QB is ready, however, and that’s fortunate. Carr likely has to lead his team to a winning record if he wants to run Gruden’s offense a third consecutive year — in Las Vegas in 2020.
