Listed here are three key place battles to observe when coaching camp opens on July 23.
Quarterback
Projected starter: Aidan O’Connell
Participant to observe: Gardner Minshew II
Second-year passer O’Connell and free-agent signee Minshew cut up first-team reps all through OTAs and minicamp. Throughout a latest look on ESPN’s “SportsCenter,” Jeremy Fowler mentioned O’Connell has a “slight edge” over Minshew due partially to his shut relationship with star extensive receiver Davante Adams.
Minshew might nonetheless unseat second-year passer O’Connell if he develops higher chemistry with Adams in coaching camp.
In 5 seasons with the Jaguars, Colts and Eagles, the 28-year-old bridge QB has accomplished 62.6 p.c of his passes for 59 TDs, 24 interceptions and an above-average 90.2 passer score. O’Connell, in the meantime, accomplished 62.1 p.c of his passes for 12 TDs, seven picks and a below-average 83.9 passer score in 11 video games in 2023.
Regardless, do not be stunned if Vegas head coach Antonio Pierce waits till Week 1 to call a starter, as neither QB has separated themself.
Working againÂ
Projected starter: Zamir White
Participant to observe: Alexander Mattison
White impressed final season when he changed an injured Josh Jacobs (quadriceps), averaging 99.3 dashing yards per recreation and operating for one TD in 4 begins. Nevertheless, Pierce indicated he desires to see extra from White, which is one cause the Raiders signed Mattison to a one-year, $2M deal this offseason.
“Simply because (White has) received the job now, that does not imply it might probably’t be taken,” Pierce mentioned at minicamp, by way of The Athletic’s Vic Tafur. “Alexander Mattison is a very good soccer participant, and that is how I will hold going about our crew. .. You probably have a nasty play, it is next-man-up mentality. So Zamir understands that — do not get comfy. And I believe he is accomplished a very good job with that.”
If White fizzles, Mattison could be a serviceable substitute. In 16 video games with the Minnesota Vikings final season, he logged a career-high 700 dashing yards on 180 carries.
Tight finish
Projected Starter: Brock Bowers
Participant to observe: Michael Mayer
The Raiders could have doubts about Mayer after taking two-time nationwide champion Bowers with the thirteenth total decide of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Mayer not too long ago advised the media he isn’t upset in regards to the Raiders choosing the 2023 first-team All-American, they usually’ll each obtain loads of alternatives. He should enhance rapidly, although, or he might lose taking part in time. In 14 video games in his rookie season, the previous second-rounder had 27 receptions for 304 yards and two TD catches.
In three seasons at Georgia, Bowers received the John Mackey Award twice as the perfect TE in school soccer, which means he doubtless has extra upside than Mayer.
