Las Vegas Raiders Give Gardner Minshew a Two-Year, $25 Million Contract and Name Him the Starter
In a groundbreaking move that has sent shockwaves throughout the NFL community, the Las Vegas Raiders have made a bold decision by signing quarterback Gardner Minshew to a two-year, $25 million contract and naming him the team’s starting quarterback for the upcoming season. This unexpected move marks a significant shift for the Raiders, a franchise that has been seeking stability at the quarterback position for several years now.
Minshew’s Journey to the Starting Role
Gardner Minshew’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of unconventional. The 6-foot-1, 225-pound quarterback, known for his unique personality, infectious mustache, and unorthodox playing style, initially gained attention during his time at Washington State, where he became a fan favorite for his high-energy performances and strong leadership on the field. After being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Minshew quickly became the face of the franchise during his rookie season.
Though Minshew’s time in Jacksonville was filled with ups and downs, he impressed both fans and analysts with his ability to come in as a rookie and show poise, accuracy, and a willingness to take control of the offense. In fact, Minshew’s 2019 season still stands as one of the best statistical campaigns of any rookie quarterback in the league, despite the Jaguars’ overall struggles as a team.
After a tumultuous 2020 season with the Jaguars, where injuries and inconsistent play led to his eventual replacement by rookie Trevor Lawrence, Minshew spent the 2021 season as a backup with the Philadelphia Eagles. However, whenever called upon, Minshew showcased his ability to step into the starting role and perform under pressure, including an impressive 20-16 win over the New York Jets in which he threw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns.
With the Eagles opting to retain Jalen Hurts as their starter in 2022, Minshew’s future in Philadelphia was uncertain. The 26-year-old quarterback, still in the prime of his career, had made it clear that he wanted a starting job and was open to any opportunity that would allow him to showcase his talent.
The Raiders’ Search for Stability
Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders had spent several seasons in search of a franchise quarterback. After parting ways with former number-one overall pick Derek Carr in the offseason, the Raiders found themselves in a precarious position at the quarterback spot. Carr had been a mainstay in the Raiders’ lineup for nearly a decade, but inconsistency and a lack of postseason success had ultimately led to his departure.
The team explored various options, including veteran quarterbacks in free agency, but the search for the right player to lead the offense remained elusive. With new head coach Josh McDaniels taking over in 2022, the Raiders hoped to build an offense that could balance strong leadership with dynamic playmaking ability at the quarterback position. McDaniels, who is known for his work with quarterbacks in New England, was seeking a player who could thrive in his system while also being able to make plays on his own.
Minshew’s name came into the picture early in the offseason. Raiders officials were impressed by his ability to step up in various roles, his versatility, and his leadership qualities, which seemed to align with what the team was looking for. However, many believed that Minshew was likely to remain a backup, with the Raiders pursuing other options at quarterback. However, in a stunning twist, the Raiders have opted to go all-in on Gardner Minshew as their starter for the 2025 season.
A New Era in Las Vegas
The decision to sign Minshew to a two-year, $25 million contract has taken the NFL by surprise, but it is clear that the Raiders believe Minshew is the key to their future success. The contract not only provides Minshew with a solid financial commitment but also offers him the opportunity to prove himself as a legitimate starting quarterback once again.
For Minshew, this opportunity is a dream come true. “I’m excited for this new chapter in my career,” Minshew said in a press conference following the announcement of the contract. “Las Vegas is a city that’s all about big moments, big plays, and excitement, and I’m ready to bring that energy to this team. I’ve always believed in myself and the talent I bring to the table, and now I’m ready to show the world what I can do as a starting quarterback for the Raiders.”
Minshew’s personality and leadership qualities are also factors that played a key role in the Raiders’ decision to hand him the reins of the offense. Known for his humor, charisma, and the way he connects with his teammates, Minshew brings a refreshing energy to the locker room. His ability to stay poised in high-pressure situations and his confidence as a leader have made him a popular figure in every locker room he’s been a part of.
Impact on the Raiders’ Offense
From a tactical standpoint, Minshew’s skill set fits well within the framework of the Raiders’ offense. Head coach Josh McDaniels is known for his ability to design creative offensive schemes that utilize the strengths of his quarterback, and Minshew’s mobility, quick release, and accuracy make him an ideal fit for McDaniels’ system.
While Minshew may not possess the traditional elite arm strength of other top-tier quarterbacks in the league, his ability to make precise throws in various situations, particularly on short and intermediate routes, is a major strength. In addition, his mobility allows him to extend plays and make things happen outside the pocket, which will provide the Raiders’ offense with additional versatility.
One of the key factors that McDaniels will need to consider is how to maximize Minshew’s strengths while also addressing the team’s offensive line play. Minshew has shown a tendency to excel when he has a clean pocket but has also proven capable of evading pressure and making plays when forced to move outside the pocket. In this regard, the Raiders’ offensive line will need to step up and give Minshew the protection he needs to succeed.
With the addition of talented offensive weapons, such as wide receivers Davante Adams and Hunter Renfrow, along with a solid running back room that includes Josh Jacobs, Minshew has the tools to help lead the Raiders back to contention in the AFC.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The announcement has already sparked a wave of reactions from Raiders fans, with some expressing excitement and optimism, while others are skeptical about the decision. Many fans have pointed to Minshew’s past performances, which, while promising, have been marred by inconsistency. Critics argue that the Raiders could have done better by pursuing a more proven quarterback in free agency or through the draft.
However, there are also plenty of fans who believe that Minshew is the perfect fit for the Raiders’ offense and that he has the potential to be the missing piece that the team has been looking for. The confidence that the front office has shown in him by naming him the starter speaks volumes, and fans are hopeful that Minshew can lead the Raiders back to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.
As the offseason progresses and the team begins training camp, all eyes will be on Gardner Minshew to see if he can live up to the lofty expectations that come with being the starting quarterback of the Las Vegas Raiders. If he can successfully harness his talents, remain healthy, and execute McDaniels’ system, Minshew could quickly become one of the league’s most intriguing quarterbacks.
Conclusion
The Las Vegas Raiders’ decision to give Gardner Minshew a two-year, $25 million contract and name him the starter represents a bold move that has the potential to reshape the franchise’s future. Minshew’s unique combination of personality, leadership, and on-field ability could be just what the Raiders need to return to relevance in the AFC. While questions remain about his consistency and ability to perform at an elite level, there is no doubt that Minshew’s signing signals a new era of excitement for the Raiders.
As the 2025 season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this unconventional move unfolds. Will Minshew lead the Raiders to success, or will the franchise once again find itself searching for answers at quarterback? One thing is for certain – Las Vegas is ready for a thrilling ride.
