Former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder is reportedly visiting the Oakland Raiders.
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Christian Ponder last played a full season in 2012 with the Minnesota Vikings when he threw for 2,935 yards and 18 touchdowns along with 12 interceptions as their starter. But, since then he lost significant time to Matt Cassell and Teddy Bridgewater. With that, he was released from the team this offseason.
Now, Ponder, who was drafted 12th overall out of Florida State in the 2011 NFL Draft, is now looking for a new home and he could find it with the Oakland Raiders. Oakland’s offensive coordinator, Bill Musgrave was Minnesota’s during Ponder’s first three seasons.
QB Christian Ponder visiting the Raiders today, sources say.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 13, 2015
The current Oakland Raiders starting quarterback is currently Derek Carr, who the Raiders drafted 36th overall in the 2014 NFL Draft. The Raiders signed veteran quarterback Matt Schaub last season, but due to his should problems he never became their starter. The Raiders can now drop Schaub which would cut $5.5 million more in cap space creating room for more players.
Ponder likely won’t come to Oakland expecting to start as he’ll be the second string ahead of Matt McGloin and behind Carr.
The Oakland Raiders struggled last season to a 3-13 record, but quarterback David Carr played adequately given the offense he had. Carr threw for 3,270 yards and 21 touchdowns with 12 interceptions. Acquiring Ponder would give Carr some good competition for the starting spot as well as a great backup plan for the Raiders.
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