Raiders, Gardner Minshew reach agreement, creating QB competition

Minshew, 27, has played for three teams (Jacksonville Jaguars, Philadelphia Eagles and Indianapolis Colts) in five seasons and is coming off the best year of his career. 

In 2023, the former sixth-round pick filled in for Indianapolis' Anthony Richardson after he suffered a season-ending shoulder injury. He went 7-6 in 13 starts, completing a career-high 62.2% of his passes for 15 touchdowns, nine picks and a below-average 84.4 passer rating. He also made the Pro Bowl as an alternate.

O'Connell, meanwhile, went 5-5 as a starter, completing 62.1% of his passes for 12 TDs, seven picks and an 83.9 passer rating. Since Minshew has slightly better numbers, give him an edge in the competition for the Raiders' starting job.   

The Raiders could still draft a quarterback, however. Head coach Antonio Pierce recently told The Athletic he doesn't want to "put a Band-Aid" on the most important position. 

In his latest mock draft, CBS Sports' Tom Fornelli had Las Vegas acquire the 30th overall pick from the Baltimore Ravens to select Washington's Michael Penix Jr. 

Regardless, Minshew could serve as a solid bridge QB for the Raiders, and he provides the depth that they need. The club reportedly plans to release Jimmy Garoppolo before the league year starts on Wednesday.