Full Breakdown
Las Vegas Raiders Sign Jeff Driskel to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Shake-Up
9/2/2025, 1:57:44 PM
Overview of the Quarterback Situation
As the 2025 NFL regular season approaches, the Las Vegas Raiders have made significant changes to their quarterback lineup. Following the injury of backup quarterback Aidan O'Connell, who fractured his wrist during the preseason, the Raiders signed veteran quarterback Jeff Driskel to their practice squad. This move comes just a week after the team traded for Kenny Pickett from the Cleveland Browns, indicating a strategic shift in their quarterback depth.
Jeff Driskel's Career and Recent Performance
Jeff Driskel, 32, has had a tumultuous career as a journeyman quarterback, playing for nine different teams since being drafted in the sixth round by the San Francisco 49ers in 2018. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 16 touchdown passes and three rushing touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. However, Driskel's starting record stands at 1-10, with his last meaningful snaps occurring in 2023 with the Cleveland Browns, where he completed 13 of 26 passes for 166 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions in a single start.
Impact on Cam Miller's Future
The addition of Driskel raises questions about the future of rookie quarterback Cam Miller, who has shown promise but has not yet secured a spot on the active roster. Despite Driskel's signing, reports confirm that Miller will remain on the practice squad for now. The Raiders' coaching staff, led by head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek, appears to be taking a cautious approach with Miller, allowing him time to develop while keeping Driskel as a potential emergency option.
Official Statements & Responses
Vincent Bonsignore of the Las Vegas Review-Journal stated, “The Raiders addition of veteran QB Jeff Driskel to their practice squad does not affect rookie QB Cam Miller. He'll remain on the practice squad as well.” This indicates that the team is not ready to give up on Miller, despite the uncertainty surrounding his role.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts view the signing of Driskel as a puzzling move, questioning the Raiders' confidence in Miller's readiness to step up if needed. Critics argue that relying on a quarterback with a poor starting record may not be the best strategy for a team looking to improve its performance. However, others suggest that Driskel's experience could provide valuable mentorship for the younger quarterbacks on the roster.
What's Next for the Raiders
The Raiders are set to open their season against the New England Patriots, and the dynamics within their quarterback room will be closely monitored. With Geno Smith as the starting quarterback and Pickett as the backup, the team must navigate the complexities of their roster decisions while ensuring they have adequate depth at the position.
In summary, the signing of Jeff Driskel to the Raiders' practice squad reflects the team's efforts to bolster their quarterback options amid injuries and uncertainties, particularly concerning the development of rookie Cam Miller. The upcoming season will reveal how these changes impact the team's overall performance and strategy.
