The Las Vegas Raiders have made a notable move in their quarterback situation, signing veteran Nathan Peterman to bolster their depth chart. Announced on August 13, the Raiders have added Peterman, a familiar face from his previous four-year stint with the team. In a corresponding move, the team waived wide receiver Keelan Doss, who will revert to the Reserve/Injured list if he clears waivers.
Peterman’s return to the Raiders comes after a brief, uneventful tenure with the New Orleans Saints earlier this offseason and two seasons with the Chicago Bears under offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, now with the Raiders. Despite being a backup throughout his career and never starting a game for the Raiders during his initial tenure from 2018 to 2021, Peterman’s familiarity with the system and previous connections make him a logical addition.
His role is unlikely to compete for the starting quarterback position held by Aidan O’Connell or Gardner Minshew. Instead, Peterman is expected to vie for the No. 3 spot on the depth chart, potentially pushing Anthony Brown and Carter Bradley. This move suggests that the Raiders are looking for a seasoned quarterback who understands the offense and can contribute in a supportive role, rather than a direct starter.
Peterman’s arrival also prompts a brief farewell to Doss, who was waived with an injury designation. Doss, a fan favorite from his rookie season due to his local roots in Alameda, California, has struggled to secure a consistent spot with the Raiders despite multiple stints with the team. With young wide receivers like DJ Turner and Ramel Keyton emerging, Doss faced stiff competition for a roster spot, making his release a somewhat expected outcome.
The decision to bring in Peterman could signal concerns about the performance of Brown and Bradley, who had limited impact in the preseason opener against the Minnesota Vikings. Brown’s performance was modest, completing just one of three passes for 24 yards, while Bradley did not attempt a pass. Peterman, with his experience and knowledge of the system, could provide valuable depth and insight, possibly even serving as a mentor to younger quarterbacks.
While Peterman may not secure a spot on the active roster, his familiarity with the Raiders’ offensive system could make him a strong candidate for the practice squad. He is expected to have a chance to prove his value in the remaining preseason games, where he will aim to solidify his position as the Raiders’ No. 3 quarterback.
In summary, the Raiders’ decision to sign Nathan Peterman reflects a strategic move to add depth and experience to their quarterback room, while the release of Keelan Doss opens up opportunities for other players to make their mark. As the team continues to evaluate their options, Peterman’s role will be crucial in determining the final composition of the quarterback depth chart for the upcoming season.
