HENDERSON, Nev. — Gardner Minshew has been named the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders as they prepare to open the season, coach Antonio Pierce announced on Sunday.
Minshew joined the Raiders as a free agent this offseason and was engaged in a competitive battle with Aidan O’Connell for the quarterback position. Pierce emphasized that the decision was not solely based on recent performances but considered a variety of factors. “We feel like Gardner gives us the best opportunity to get off to a fast start, and that’s what we’re going with,” he stated, expressing full support from the team and organization for the decision.
Last season, Minshew, who played for the Colts, had a total QBR of 59.7, significantly better than O’Connell’s 40.5 with the Raiders, though their other statistics were comparable. Minshew completed 62% of his passes, averaged 6.7 yards per attempt, and produced a touchdown-to-interception ratio of 15 to 9.
The Raiders are set to kick off the 2024 season against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 1.
Pierce noted Minshew’s experience entering his sixth NFL season as a key factor in the decision, along with his performance in practices and games during the preseason. “We feel like Gardner gives us the best opportunity,” he said, acknowledging that there is room for improvement.
Minshew, now 28, signed a two-year contract worth $25 million, with $15 million guaranteed. In two preseason games, he tallied 212 passing yards on 16 of 33 attempts, including one touchdown, while also rushing for 12 yards on two carries.
O’Connell’s preseason performance included a completion rate of 72.4%, with 172 yards, one touchdown, and one interception that was returned for a touchdown.
After losing to the Dallas Cowboys in a preseason game, Minshew expressed optimism for the team’s future. “I’m super optimistic about what we’re going to be able to do as a team this year,” he mentioned.
The decision to name Minshew the starter was made after discussions with general manager Tom Telesco and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy. Pierce praised Minshew’s leadership qualities, stating, “His personality is infectious, his energy is infectious, his leadership is infectious.”
O’Connell, drafted in the fourth round of 2023, showed promise at the end of last season, throwing eight touchdowns without an interception in his last four games. Pierce acknowledged both quarterbacks’ professionalism and their competitive spirit during training camp, which had a positive impact on the team.
As Minshew prepares for his sixth consecutive season as a starting quarterback, he will be starting for his fourth different team since 2020, matching players like Andy Dalton, Carson Wentz, and Baker Mayfield for the most teams started for during that period.