The Las Vegas Raiders have re-signed Nathan Peterman, a free-agent quarterback, who previously spent three seasons with the team from 2018 to 2021. Peterman is expected to serve as a backup quarterback, providing support to Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew, who are currently vying for the starting quarterback position. In a recent preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings, O’Connell and Minshew each played a quarter and helped the Raiders establish a 20-7 halftime lead. However, the Raiders’ backup quarterbacks, Anthony Brown Jr. and Carter Bradley, struggled in the latter half, allowing the Vikings to make a comeback and secure a narrow 24-23 victory.
Peterman’s journey with the Raiders began when he joined their practice squad in December 2018 after being released by the Buffalo Bills. During his previous tenure with the Raiders, Peterman saw limited playing time, appearing in only two games across the 2020 and 2021 seasons and attempting just five passes, three of which were completed.
In 2022, Peterman moved to the Chicago Bears, where he served as a backup quarterback. During that season, he completed 14 of 25 passes for 139 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception. However, his role was minimal, and he did not throw any passes in the following season. Earlier this year, Peterman signed with the New Orleans Saints but was released on August 2 before the Raiders decided to bring him back into the fold.
Peterman’s return comes as the Raiders prepare for their next preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys. The team’s decision to re-sign Peterman highlights their need for a reliable backup option, especially in light of the inconsistent performance from their other reserve quarterbacks.
In other news, the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, is set to undergo knee surgery after tearing the meniscus in his right knee during the team’s 24-23 preseason win against the Raiders. Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed the injury and noted that the extent of McCarthy’s recovery would depend on the outcome of the surgery. If the medical team determines that McCarthy’s meniscus can be trimmed, he may return to action later in the season. However, if a full repair is necessary, McCarthy could be sidelined until 2025.
McCarthy’s injury has increased the need for veteran quarterback Sam Darnold, who signed a one-year, $10 million contract with the Vikings in March after spending the 2023 season as a backup with the San Francisco 49ers. Darnold’s experience and ability to step into the starting role could be crucial for the Vikings as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
