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sports1d ago
Pete Carroll Makes Raiders' Quarterback Decision Ahead of Week 15
Si.com and 1 more
- Geno Smith's shoulder injury opens the door for Kenny Pickett to make his second NFL start, with Pickett stepping in as the Raiders’ Week 15 QB in Philadelphia.
- Pickett is well prepared after getting first-team reps all week, with Aidan O’Connell remaining as the emergency backup.
- Raiders coach Pete Carroll praised Pickett’s readiness and steady week, noting his command in practices and mental approach.
- Pickett’s mobility in relief last week suggested the Raiders could lean on his legs to extend plays and create opportunities downfield.
- The Week 15 matchup against the Eagles presents a test in Philadelphia, where Pickett must quickly build timing with receivers amid potential weather challenges.
- The Raiders traded for Pickett before the season as part of a longer-term plan to address the quarterback depth after O’Connell’s injury.
- During the season, Pickett has logged 33 career games (25 starts) with experience across four teams, contributing to an evolving backup plan for Las Vegas.
- interim offensive coordinator Greg Olson has tailored the offense to maximize Pickett’s mobility and decision-making.
- Carroll emphasized that Pickett, and any backup, must be ready to play at a moment’s notice, reflecting Seattle-era expectations in the Raiders’ approach to readiness.
- Geno Smith’s injury status and ongoing back concerns remain a factor, but health is cited as the primary barrier to his return in the near term.
- The Eagles’ recent defensive performance and the Raiders’ run game potential, led by Ashton Jeanty, could shape the Week 15 outcome against a talented Philadelphia front.
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