The Las Vegas Raiders opted to go with quarterback Gardner Minshew II over Aidan O’Connell during the preseason, but both could be out of the running for the starting role next year if Dak Prescott enters free agency.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on Thursday, September 5, a source familiar with the stalled contract talks between Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys indicated that free agency is the most probable outcome for the quarterback next March.
At that point, teams will begin bidding, and Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report predicted the Raiders would be leading the chase for the three-time Pro Bowler.
“The Las Vegas Raiders would be clear contenders for Prescott if he becomes available in 2025,” Knox wrote on Thursday. “If Minshew doesn’t establish himself as a definitive upgrade, new head coach Antonio Pierce may revert to O’Connell. However, even if Minshew performs well, it’s unlikely to deter Las Vegas from pursuing Prescott.”
Ted Nguyen of The Athletic reported Thursday that if Prescott were to re-sign with the Cowboys now, the deal would likely be around $240 million over four years—averaging $60 million per year, which would make him the highest-paid player in NFL history by $5 million annually.
The Raiders are projected to have the financial flexibility to make such an offer, with Spotrac estimating they could have approximately $72.5 million in salary cap space available next spring.
Prescott, who will be 31 this season, finished second in MVP voting last year, posting 4,516 passing yards, a league-leading 36 touchdown passes, and just nine interceptions, according to Pro Football Reference.
Be the first to comment