Oakland Raiders: Relocation could spurn quarterback change for 2021

The move to Las Vegas could prove the need to make a decision come the 2021 NFL Draft, meaning the Oakland Raiders might make a change at quarterback.

Relocation has a funny way of affecting teams. In 2016, the Los Angeles Rams were fresh off a long run in St. Louis and traded up to the top spot to select Jared Goff. In 2021, the Oakland Raiders will be entering their second season in Las Vegas and could go all in on a fresh face at quarterback.

The quarterback that many believe will attract the attention of Jon Gruden — and the rest of the NFL — is Trevor Lawrence from Clemson. Lawrence, described as the “crown jewel” of the 2021 draft class, could find himself leading the Silver and Black from the cozy confines just off of the Las Vegas Strip.

For the Raiders, it’s a curious question as to if they would want to cut bait on Derek Carr. For an organization looking to make a big splash among the glitz of Vegas, it could be an opportunity too good to pass up.

The Raiders, who may have already turned the corner on being competitive, would have a couple of seasons to put the puzzle pieces in place. Further, it will be interesting to see if Lawrence can maintain the hot hand he showed in the College Football Playoff.

The Clemson quarterback managed to complete 66.2 percent of his passes for 674 yards, six touchdowns and no interceptions when facing both Notre Dame and Alabama on his way to winning a title. By every definition, he should be the next NFL Draft flavor of the month, even if it’s two seasons too early.

The bigger question, however, is why the rush to bail on Carr for the Raiders?

Oakland fans have yet to see how it all clicks with Antonio Brown. They also don’t know how a full season under Gruden may have improved Carr’s game. Also, what if Lawrence flashed early and manages to slide back? He certainly wouldn’t be the first to flame out after making such a huge first impression.

The Raiders will enter the Las Vegas experience at an interesting crossroads. Carr could become a convenient cap-casualty if it makes sense. While Oakland should be better in 2019, it is no guarantee that they are. As for Gruden, he has already shown a willingness to roll the dice if it means the potential for something better down the road.

Maybe Lawrence is that ”something better” in 2021, maybe he’s not. But if history is any indication, expect the Raiders to take a long look at making a big splash in Sin City.