New Las Vegas Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels made it clear that Derek Carr will remain their starting quarterback.
While the veteran play-caller could have demanded some interest in the trade market, the former New England Patriots offensive coordinator will build his offense around Carr.
There will be changes to their offensive system, especially with more play action and two tight-end sets.
Even with those alterations, the Raiders are better off holding onto Carr after finishing with 4,804 passing yards and 23 touchdowns last season.
Likewise, the former Fresno State standout keeps them competitive in a division with Justin Herbert, Russell Wilson, and Patrick Mahomes.
They’ve built around Carr by bringing All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams via a five-year, $141 million contract.
The Raiders also brought in wide receivers Demarcus Robinson and Mack Hollins and running back Brandon Bolden.
Las Vegas also beefed up their defense with Anthony Averett, Bilal Nichols, and Chandler Jones.
However, they’ve also lost quarterback Marcus Mariota to the Atlanta Falcons.
That’s a void that the team has already addressed, as shared by NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo.
The #Raiders have agreed to terms with QB Nick Mullens, source says. Right now, it's him and Garrett Gilbert behind Derek Carr, so a good shot for him to land a backup gig.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 1, 2022
Garafolo said, “The #Raiders have agreed to terms with QB Nick Mullens, source says. Right now, it’s him and Garrett Gilbert behind Derek Carr, so a good shot for him to land a backup gig.”
Insurance Policy At Quarterback
The Raiders hope they won’t resort to having Mullens under center next season, especially against fellow AFC West teams.
Otherwise, the playoffs would be a distant reality.
Mullens went undrafted in 2017 but signed with the San Francisco 49ers.
He spent four seasons with the Niners before transferring to the Cleveland Browns.
His best season at quarterback came in 2020 when he filled in for an injured Jimmy Garoppolo.
The former Southern Miss standout had 2,437 yards and 12 touchdowns in eight games that season.
Last year, Mullens started one game for the Browns and threw one touchdown.
NEXT: Josh McDaniels Comments On Derek Carr Extension Talks