When the Las Vegas Raiders named Gardner Minshew their Week 1 starter, no one anticipated him becoming an All-Pro quarterback. However, his performance fell far below even the lowest expectations.
Minshew finished the season with a 2-7 record as a starter, throwing nine touchdowns against 10 interceptions before an injury ended his year prematurely. Known for performing better in a backup role, it seems unlikely the Raiders would retain him as their starting quarterback next season.
In fact, there’s a strong possibility they’ll release him entirely. According to the Bleacher Report Scouting Department, Minshew ranks as the top cut candidate for the Raiders.
“The Raiders fired general manager Tom Telesco after it initially seemed he would stay,” Bleacher Report wrote on January 20. “Until they hire a new head coach and general manager, the team’s direction remains unclear. However, it’s a safe assumption that Gardner Minshew won’t be part of the future plan.
“Minshew’s 2-7 record, 10 interceptions to nine touchdowns, and dismal 38.3 QBR this season leave little hope. Whether through the draft or free agency, the Raiders appear ready to rebuild at quarterback. Releasing Minshew would free up $6.3 million in cap space.”
Could Next Head Coach Want To Keep Gardner Minshew?
Minshew was a questionable signing by former general manager Tom Telesco, who is no longer with the team. Although the quarterback struggled in 2024, he has shown potential in the past and could still be valuable as a backup.
With no clear starting quarterback for the Raiders in 2025, keeping Minshew as a backup might not be a terrible idea. The team’s incoming general manager and head coach might recognize his value, but his future with the Raiders will ultimately depend on the new leadership’s plans for football operations.
How Will Raiders Address QB in Offseason
No matter what the Raiders decide to do with Minshew, they’ll face significant decisions about their quarterback situation in the offseason. While Aidan O’Connell has shown potential, he’s already 26 and only has two seasons under his belt, limiting his long-term upside.
The draft seems like the best route to address the position, but it’s unclear if a top prospect will still be available when the Raiders pick at No. 6 in the first round. The free-agent quarterback market isn’t particularly appealing either. Sam Darnold will likely come with a hefty price tag, Russell Wilson’s performance has been subpar in recent years, and Justin Fields is more of a running threat than a passer.
The Raiders might have to push the quarterback decision to next year, especially since their roster has numerous other pressing needs. A more strategic approach could be to strengthen the team now, creating a solid foundation for a future quarterback to succeed. Additionally, next year’s quarterback draft class is expected to be stronger and deeper than this year’s.
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