McDaniels: Backup QB Spot Not 'Set in Stone at All'

The Las Vegas Raiders' 2022-23 season ended with quite a bit of uncertainty in the quarterback room when it was determined former franchise quarterback Derek Carr would be heading out the door.

More than half a later later, the club seems to be fairly content with its options in the quarterback rotation as the 2023 season approaches.

With two-time Super Bowl champion Jimmy Garoppolo leading the way, the Raiders have two backup options with very different levels of experience, yet still impressive resumes.

Rookie Aidan O'Connell had a fantastic preseason and has quickly gained the praise and support of Raider Nation. Meanwhile, veteran Brian Hoyer comes in with 14 years of NFL experience, including time with Raiders Coach Josh McDaniels from their days together in New England.

According to McDaniels, that No. 2 spot is still to be determined.

"Aidan's took advantage of his opportunities," McDaniels told reporters in a virtual zoom meeting on Sunday. "That's all he can do. And we played him a lot because Brian [Hoyer] obviously has played quite a bit of football in his career and has practiced a good chunk, especially in the time that Jimmy [Garoppolo] was not out there and then also, he did a lot of work in the joint practices. So, they've gotten a ton of work -- all of them have, honestly.

"Aidan's learning each week, each day, each game from the mistakes that he makes and from some of the things that he's really doing well. And so, we'll take stock of all of that here in the next few weeks and try to make the best decision going forward. But I don't see that as something that's, like, a decision that's going to be made and set in stone at all. It's a competitive environment, we want it to be a competitive environment, and based on what's best for the team, we'll try to make the right decisions."

The Silver and Black open the regular season at the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Sept. 10, at 4:25 p.m. EDT/1:25 p.m. PDT.

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