Pete Carroll‘s first season as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders has kicked off with a significant challenge-finding the right quarterback to lead the team. After an unsuccessful pursuit of Matthew Stafford, Carroll and Raiders part-owner Tom Brady are now considering other options. Among them are two intriguing choices: veteran quarterback Russell Wilson and 27-year-old Sam Darnold.
While both quarterbacks bring different skill sets to the table, the decision will ultimately shape the Raiders‘ offense for the coming years.
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With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, Carroll and Brady must decide whether to secure an experienced veteran or invest in developing a younger quarterback for the future.
A Potential Reunion for Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson?
Rumors of a possible reunion between Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson have been swirling. The two spent a decade together in Seattle, leading the Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory. However, their relationship reportedly fractured before Wilson‘s departure to the Denver Broncos. Carroll dismissed those reports, insisting he still holds Wilson in high regard.
At 36 years old, Wilson is looking for stability in his next move. His tenure with the Broncos ended on a sour note, and while he showed promise with the Pittsburgh Steelers last season, his long-term status remains uncertain. If the Raiders decide to bring in Wilson, it could provide Carroll with an experienced quarterback who already understands his coaching philosophy. This move would allow the Raiders to draft a young quarterback and give him time to develop under Wilson’s mentorship.
Sam Darnold: A Younger, Long-Term Option
If the Raiders want a quarterback with more longevity, Sam Darnold could be a logical choice. The 27-year-old enjoyed a resurgence with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024, leading the team to a 14-3 record and securing his first playoff appearance. While Wilson boasts more experience, Darnold‘s age gives him an advantage in terms of potential longevity in the Raiders’ system.
Darnold has struggled with consistency throughout his career, but under the right coaching staff, he could thrive. Carroll‘s ability to maximize a quarterback’s strengths-seen during Wilson’s early years in Seattle-could give Darnold a chance to solidify himself as a reliable starter.
Tom Brady’s Role in the Decision
As a minority owner of the Raiders, Tom Brady will play a pivotal role in the team’s quarterback decision. Known for his attention to detail and leadership, Brady will likely push for a signal-caller who fits the team’s immediate needs while also considering long-term success.
Brady‘s influence in shaping the Raiders‘ future has not gone unnoticed, especially among young quarterbacks. One such admirer is Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
Shedeur Sanders on His Admiration for Brady
During an interview at the NFL Combine, Shedeur Sanders spoke about his admiration for Tom Brady and how he has modeled parts of his game after the legendary quarterback.
“Tom Brady. I’m able to see what he has done, and mentally, how he was able to beat people with the mind. So, it’s physically that’s why he was able to play to the year he was able to play. I inherited those types of abilities. I see what he is doing. Okay, I add this to the game, and that’s why I’m not at my best product yet,” Sanders said.
Although the Raiders currently hold the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Sanders seems unlikely. However, the team could explore drafting a quarterback in later rounds while still securing a veteran leader for the upcoming season.
What’s Next for the Raiders?
With free agency opening on March 12, the Raiders have a short window to finalize their quarterback decision. Whether they opt for the experience of Russell Wilson, the potential of Sam Darnold, or another unexpected move, the choice will significantly impact their success in 2025.
As the offseason unfolds, expect more clarity on how Carroll and Brady plan to build their team. One thing is certain-Las Vegas is in for an exciting ride as they search for their next franchise quarterback.
