The NFL training camps have begun, and in no time at all, all 32 teams will be wearing pads and getting ready for the 2024 regular season to begin. Jobs will be gained and lost around the league, and camps will move at a dizzying pace.
In light of this, the following list of 12 seasoned players—listed in order of position—may be in jeopardy of losing their starting jobs in 2024.
Heading into camp, there are just too few real quarterback battles in the NFL, with most contests being bridge quarterbacks attempting to hold off rookies. But in Las Vegas, we have a legitimate quarterbacking matchup between Aidan O'Connell and Minshew, two intriguing but unimpressive players.
As an offseason addition, Minshew is a new player in this equation and may actually replace O'Connell, who started 10 games as a rookie for the Raiders last season, if he emerges as the starter. However, Minshew is still the more seasoned veteran, and supporting O'Connell would be a clear step down following his 13-game start (and Pro Bowl selection) with the Colts in 2023. In addition, Vegas paid him a respectable sum of money on a $25 million, two-year contract.
With 37 NFL starts over five seasons, Minshew has unquestionably produced a greater body of performance as a professional. In fact, he provides a respectable floor since he often limits the number of interceptions he makes, has some running ability, and never gives up on plays. However, that seems more like the blueprint for a better backup than a starter for the entire season.
Of course, the Raiders may start Minshew and give O'Connell the chance to earn the starting position during the season. But it seems like a better idea to give O'Connell a chance right now. According to head coach Antonio Pierce, O'Connell's 2023 performance warrants a chance to start. O'Connell was particularly notable for his final six starts, during which he completed only one interception, threw nine touchdowns, and reduced the number of sacks quarterback took. Whatever happens, the Raiders can always turn to Minshew if the 2023 fourth-round selection flames out in Year 2. However, the Raiders recognize that this is probably O'Connell's best chance to secure the starting job going forward and must evaluate his abilities before considering other options for the 2025 summer, like as upgrading the QB position.
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