The NFL's training camps have begun, and before you know it, all 32 teams will be in pads practicing to get ready for the regular season in 2024. The pace of camps will be frantic, and jobs will be won and lost across the league.
With that in mind, the following is a list of 12 veteran players who could lose their starting positions in 2024, arranged by position (defense first, then offense). There aren't many true quarterback battles in the NFL heading into camp, most of which feature bridge quarterbacks trying to beat rookies. However, we have a legitimate duel between two intriguing but flawed quarterbacks in Las Vegas: Minshew and O'Connell Aidan
Minshew is the newcomer to this equation as an offseason signing, and if he becomes the starter, he would replace O'Connell, who started 10 games last season for the Raiders as a rookie. However, Minshew is still the more seasoned veteran, and stepping in for O'Connell in 2023, when he started 13 games for the Colts and was named to the Pro Bowl, would be a clear departure. In addition, Vegas offered him a pretty lucrative $25 million contract for two years.
With 37 starts in the NFL over five seasons, Minshew clearly has the better professional record. He actually provides a respectable floor, generally keeping his interceptions to a minimum, displaying some ability to run, and keeping plays alive with his never-quit approach. Yet, that peruses more like the layout for a greater reinforcement than a full-season starter.
Yes, the Raiders could start with Minshew in the lineup, giving O'Connell a chance to win the job throughout the season. However, giving O'Connell a shot now seems like a better option. Based on his performance in 2023, head coach Antonio Pierce has stated that O'Connell deserves a chance to start. O'Connell stood out in particular in his final six starts, when he threw for nine touchdowns, only made one mistake, and took fewer sacks. It's fine if the 2023 fourth-round pick falters in Year 2; the Thieves can continuously go to Minshew then. However, the Raiders are aware that this is likely O'Connell's only chance at long-term employment, and they are aware that they must determine his capabilities prior to focusing on QB position enhancement in the offseason of 2025.