Now that the Oakland Raiders have finished mini-camp, Reggie McKenzie has a five week window to get a contract extension done with Derek Carr and Gabe Jackson. However per Adam Schefter, it appears Reggie McKenzie is about to cross Carr off his to do list.
Raiders and Derek Carr are close to finalizing a deal expected to pay their quarterback about $25 million per year, per league sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 21, 2017
Derek Carr could be highest paid paid NFL player in history.
Andrew Luck $24.6 million average annual salary.
Carson Palmer $24.35M.
Drew Brees’ $24.25M
Kirk Cousins’ $23.9M.
Derek Carr at or near top.— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 21, 2017
What will be interesting will be the details. How much will be guaranteed? Will it be front loaded, or back loaded? Considering the amount Carr could save on state taxes, as well as, Reggie needing a bit of breathing room this year and next, back loading the contract might make sense.
Now back to the question at hand. Is Derek Carr worth 25 million a year?
Derek Carr started off his career with a rocky 0-10 start. Since then though, Carr is 22-15 and was 12-3 last year before breaking his leg. Additionally every year Carr has improved his craft and eliminated weaknesses. 2017 will be Carr’s fourth year in the league, and he finally has a weapon at every skill position on offense. Adding Marshawn Lynch and Jared Cook, gives Carr 4 solid play makers, and if Seth Roberts can reduce the drops, add one more to that list. Lets not forget that the Raiders offense was ranked 6th last year to boot.
Getting the first legitimate franchise quarterback, since Kenny Stabler, under contract, is a must for a franchise after 14 years of being the NFL’s whipping boy. Once Carr’s contract is announced, expect Jackson’s to come next.
