Fans largely support this decision, believing Minshew has earned the right to be the starter beyond just these preseason games. But the pressing question remains: Is he ready to guide the Raiders back to the playoffs? The team hasn’t seen postseason action since 2021 and has only made it to the playoffs twice since 2003.

Minshew, who was drafted in the sixth round in 2019, has mostly served as a backup but has accumulated significant experience starting games across three different teams. His career record as a starter is 15-22, with a 62.6% completion rate and 9,937 passing yards.

Most of Minshew’s playing time came during his rookie year in Jacksonville and last season with the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts went 7-6 under Minshew’s leadership last year, as he stepped in for the injured rookie first-round pick, Anthony Richardson.

Despite missing the playoffs with a 9-8 record, Minshew’s performance was commendable under the circumstances. Meanwhile, the Raiders, under the interim leadership of Pierce, managed to turn their season around, finishing 8-9.

The upcoming season won’t be easy, especially in a strengthened AFC West division. The Kansas City Chiefs remain formidable, the Los Angeles Chargers are expected to improve under Jim Harbaugh, and the Denver Broncos are a wild card with rookie Bo Nix potentially starting.

The Raiders will need Minshew to step up in key moments, making crucial plays when it matters most. Although he won’t have former rushing champion Josh Jacobs in the backfield, Minshew still has one of the league’s top receiving threats in Davante Adams.

If Minshew and Adams can develop strong chemistry, and if Pierce’s defense can hold its own, the Raiders could be poised for a serious postseason push.