The biggest question surrounding the Las Vegas Raiders continues to be who will be the quarterback for the team in 2023. Davante Adams has already spoken his mind about who he would love to see in silver and black and now the team’s other premier pass catcher, tight end Darren Waller, has opened up as well.
Waller had an injury-plagued season in 2022, but at his best, he has proven to be a game-changer at the tight end position. Obviously who is under center will directly affect him and his production, but in an interview with Jeff Fedotin of Forbes, Waller admitted he is just as in the dark as the average fan:
“I have no idea,” Waller exclusively shared. “I have no input. So I’m waiting to see what happens just like everyone else.”
Originally the Raiders were linked heavily to former Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady until he announced his retirement from the NFL. While Jimmy Garoppolo has been mentioned as a possibility as well due to his familiarity with head coach Josh McDaniels, the name generating the most buzz is Green Bay Packers star Aaron Rodgers.
Both Adams and running back Josh Jacobs have spoken about the possibility of Rodgers being under center for the Raiders next season and how excited they would be. And Waller was right in line with their feelings as well:
“Anybody who’s ever played football would be on board with Aaron Rodgers coming to the team,” Waller said. “If he comes to the team, I will not be disappointed.”
Rodgers’ resume and talent speak for themselves. He is widely considered one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history, capable of making any throw, and the Raiders have all of the talent around that would allow him to thrive.
Whoever is under center for the Raiders next season will be taking over for Derek Carr who was sent home by the Raiders before the final two games of the season. Carr has finally been released by the Raiders and Waller had nothing but love and praise for his former signal caller:
“He’s done a tremendous amount for my career,” Waller said. “I’ll always appreciate him.”
For Waller, next season will be all about staying healthy and showing he still is among the league’s elite at the tight end position. As long as he is on the field, the right guy under center will undoubtedly make great use of him.
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