Silver Minings: Derek Carr has checked down at a high rate

The checkdown is often considered a dirty word when it comes to quarterbacking in football.

Often, quarterbacks who check the ball down are referred to as a ”Checkdown Charlie” or “Captain Checkdown.” Checkdowns are basically bail outs that give the quarterback a second chance to make a positive play. Every quarterback uses it, but coaches don’t want them to overly rely on the strategy.

In recent a study by Pro Football Focus over the last two years, Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr has checked down 9.5 percent of the third. It is the third-most in the NFL — and the most of any quarterback who was a constant starter the past two years.

We’ve all seen Carr’s checkdowns, so it’s a surprise ... but again, it is not necessarily a bad thing.

Of course, things can change in 2022. He is in a new system, He has Davante Adams to throw to and perhaps the offensive line will improve. So, it may not be surprise if his checkdown percentage dwindles in 2022.

In other Raiders’ links:

• Kaepernick thoughts: A Las Vegas Review-Journal columnist looks at the Raiders exploring Colin Kaepernick.
• Carr looks good: Carr grades out well in this number crunch.
• Not impressed: Most folks think the Raiders had a very good offseason. But not this ESPN analyst.
• Legendary visit: Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders visited the Raiders’ headquarters this week.