The Raiders really could have used Marcus Mariota on Sunday. For a few plays, Nathan Peterman was forced onto the field after Derek Carr went down with what looked like a serious injury. Peterman played four snaps but did not attempt a pass and the team failed to gain a first down.
While Carr did return to the field, it would have been nice to insert Mariota in that situation. However, he is expected to return to the field as soon as this week, according to head coach Jon Gruden.
Marcus Mariota expected to return to practice this week, might be activated for Sunday; Raiders targeting Week 9 for Richie Incognito's return. "He is getting better," Gruden said. #Raiders
— Vic Tafur (@VicTafur) October 11, 2021
Mariota was injured in the first game of the season on a long run against the Ravens. He since went on the injured reserve list and has missed the last four games
The Raiders aren’t going to bench Car for Mariota, but it’s clear that the team does have a package of plays they want to use him for in the offense. And with the running game struggling as much as it has over the last few weeks, Mariota could be a sight for sore eyes.
Mariota still needs to be activated off the injured reserve list, but expect him to practice in the next few days. The Raiders take on the Broncos in Week 6 in a game they must win if they want to stay competitive for the AFC West division crown.
