Are the 4-2 Oakland Raiders ready to give the reigns of their offense to a guy who hasn't practiced or taken a snap since the 2010 NFL season?
During their 24-17 route of the Cleveland Browns last Sunday in Oakland, Raiders quarterback Jason Campbell who's been decent at times but came out guns blazing to help lead his team to a stellar 4-2 record this season was carted off the field after sustaining an injury in the first half. With backup QB Kyle Boller filling in to finish the game, it would later be learned that Campbell had suffered a broken collarbone which would require surgery, thus putting him on the shelf for what looks to be the remainder of the season.
Hoping to stay afloat in the AFC West and keep within striking distance of the 4-1 San Diego Chargers, the Raiders decided to hit the free agent market in search of someone with leadership skills to fill the void of the ailing Campbell. After contacting an uninterested David Garrard who also plans to undergo surgery to repair a herniated disc in his back, the Raiders were forced to consider a trade. With just hours to spare before Tuesday's NFL trade deadline, the Raiders front office got in touch with the Cincinnati Bengals who were letting the contract and career of former Heisman Trophy winner Carson Palmer rot on the sidelines following a trade demand that went sour.
The Raiders got their man, but at an expensive price sending a first round draft pick (2012) and a second round draft pick that could turn into a first round pick if the Palmer-led Raiders win a Playoff game to Cincy. Though Oakland gets a much needed veteran QB to help bolster their offense, the Bengals are the ones who come out winners in this deal for the sole fact that they were willing to eat the contract of Palmer, but instead score not one, but two draft picks for virtually nothing. But that's not to take away from the Raiders either if Palmer can lead them to the promise land. Many have begun to question the decision of Oakland shipping two early draft picks for a former Pro-Bowl QB who's in his 30's and appears to have already peaked, but it should prevent the team from pushing the panic button just yet.
Following a press-conference, reports first had Palmer taking snaps no earlier than next week, but after his first day of practice coach Hue Jackson appears to have a change of heart. Instead of going with the more knowledgeable Boller who's in his second year with the team and is familiar with the playbook, the Raider Nation will get to see their first glimpse of the newest member to don the black and silver as soon as Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs according to sources. With little to no chemistry with his receivers just yet, I think it's safe to say we can expect a bit of rust and cobwebs from Palmer considering it was only three days ago that he was sitting on the couch at his southern California home.
However, one thing is certain this season and that's that the Raiders are all in this year. And with the recent passing of Raiders owner Al Davis, what better way to pay homage to the boss than to try and win him another Super Bowl in his remembrance.
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