The Las Vegas Raiders missed out on quarterback Matthew Stafford, as he agreed to rejoin the Los Angeles Rams.
The Raiders were reportedly aggressively pursuing Stafford, per Vincent Bonsignore of the Las Vegas Review Journal. So what is next for the Silver and Black? While it would have been a major upgrade to add the Super Bowl champion quarterback, the Raiders now need to pivot.
Per Vic Tafur of The Athletic, the Raiders are not high on Sam Darnold or other free agents.
One they should strongly consider, though, is Justin Fields. His mobility would mesh with new Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. Fields would thrive in Kelly's fast-paced system and is able to extend plays with his scrambling ability.
During his four NFL seasons, Fields has passed for 7,780 yards with 45 touchdowns against 31 interceptions. He's also shown promise with his legs, as he's rushed for 2,509 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns. In 2022, he rushed for a career-best 1,143 yards and eight touchdowns.
Under the guidance of Kelly, who previously served as Ohio State's offensive coordinator, Buckeyes QB Will Howard passed for 4,010 yards and 35 touchdowns last season while running for seven scores. There is no denying Kelly can get the most out of Fields.
Realistically, the Raiders should be looking at both Fields and the quarterbacks in this year's draft class since there is a chance Colorado's Shedeur Sanders will be available at No. 6. New Raiders coach Pete Carroll wants to win now, though, so the Raiders must find a way to get Fields in silver and black colors to make that happen.
