While Derek Carr was a Pro Bowl alternate last season, he took a clear step back from his outstanding 2016 campaign that unfortunately saw him suffer a season-ending injury late in the year. Carr will try to find his mojo again under new Oakland Raiders head coach Jon Gruden, who's a big fan of working with the 27-year-old quarterback.
Via Raiders press release:
“Well, I think it's going pretty good. I try not to over-coach him. He is a blast to be around. He is extremely talented. He's a great worker. We're trying to give him a system that he can sink his teeth into and take control of when the game starts. He's got tremendous leadership and style. But, I think we're making progress. I can't speak for him, but I sure enjoy coming in here and working with him every day.”
Carr played well in two preseason games in Gruden's offense. He completed 20 of his 28 pass attempts for 244 yards, four touchdowns and one interception for a terrific quarterback rating of 128.8. That's at least a good sign for the quarterback's comfort under Gruden, but he'll have to show he can perform when it matters.
Oakland will need Carr and the offense to lead the way after the team traded away superstar pass rusher Khalil Mack to the Chicago Bears. After the Carr-led Raiders ranked seventh in scoring offense in 2016, they dipped to 23rd last year. With the defense struggling even with Mack, that resulted in a 6-10 record.
If the offense can find its groove again under Gruden, perhaps the Raiders can overcome the loss of their star defensive player and have a more successful season.
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