Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr caught his fair share of flak for the team's disappointing 2019 campaign. He was not shy about firing back all the criticisms regarding his status as a franchise cornerstone throughout the offseason.

Carr further elaborated on how his approach has changed going into the 2020 NFL season during an appearance on Mad Dog Sports Radio:

“I think it’s the people that, just really just, without lack of a better term, just don’t know what’s going on,” Carr said. “What we accomplished, what we’re able to do has been pretty awesome. And some pretty fun circumstances, I’ll say it, in a fun way. It just is what it is. I’m just tired of the talk, I’m just ready to play, and I’m excited to take my group of guys, and go and do this thing (with the Raiders). And like I said, people can keep saying all they want, I think I’ve grown to a place in my life, where I just don’t care anymore. I’ve always been a people pleaser. I’ve always tried to appease everybody, but those days are dead and gone. I’m here, and no disrespect to anybody, but I’m not here to be anybody’s friend. . . . I think it’s time to just go out and play football and not care about the other stuff.”

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Carr's comments are indicative of the newfound chip on his shoulder heading into the season. After all, there was plenty of speculation regarding the Raiders' potential plans under center after they added Marcus Mariota in free agency.

Carr was able to back up his talk in training camp by establishing himself as the clear-cut starter for the Raiders. Meanwhile, Mariota has since been placed on injured reserve and will not be eligible to return until after Week 3.

The Raiders revamped their receiving corps with a healthy mix of young talent and veteran experience. The emergence of running back Josh Jacobs behind one of the most talented offensive line groups in the NFL means the onus will now fall on Carr to put it all together.