QB Ponder growing into his role as Raiders backup
Some would say that Christian Ponder is a little too young to play the role of a grizzled veteran backup.
But that's exactly what the former Vikings quarterback is to the Raiders these days. With incumbent starter Derek Carr out as a precaution, Ponder finds himself in uncharted territory -- as the team's reliable No. 2 option.
"It's nice to be out there getting reps," Ponder told Inside Bay Area. "Last year I didn't get many reps with Matt Cassel and Teddy (Bridgewater) ahead of me, so it's good to be out there, getting more reps and getting my feet wet."
Ponder was slowly phased out in Minnesota until Bridgewater's arrival. But he's still talented -- he was the No. 12 overall pick just four years ago out of Florida State.
"It stinks having to go through stuff like that -- losing your job and having to find a new organization," Ponder said. "But it's worked out for me so far."
Strangely enough, Ponder might be the best man for the job should Carr falter. He has a relationship with offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave from their days together with the Vikings.
But Ponder is finally comfortable and growing into his new role. He says he's not out to supplant any incumbents.
"My job, I understand, is the backup," he said. "I'm here to help Derek and this team out. It is exciting to be taking first-team reps, but I know this is Derek's team."
-
Raiders GM Tom Telesco: Aidan O'Connell, Gardner Minshew will compete to be QB1
2024 NFL free agency tracker: Signings, updates, best players available
Super Bowl locations, dates for 2025, 2026, 2027
-
2024 NFL Power Rankings: A post-draft look at where every team stands
2024 NFL predictions: An early look at division winners
2023 NFL WR rankings: Justin Jefferson leads loaded list of top 10 receivers
-
2025 NFL mock draft: Who are next year's top prospects
2024 NFL Draft QB rankings: Caleb Williams leads top 10 prospects
2024 NFL Draft RB rankings: No clear stars, but deep top 10 prospects
-
Raiders GM Tom Telesco: Aidan O'Connell, Gardner Minshew will compete to be QB1
2024 NFL free agency tracker: Signings, updates, best players available
Super Bowl locations, dates for 2025, 2026, 2027
-
2024 NFL Power Rankings: A post-draft look at where every team stands
2024 NFL predictions: An early look at division winners
2023 NFL WR rankings: Justin Jefferson leads loaded list of top 10 receivers
-
2025 NFL mock draft: Who are next year's top prospects
2024 NFL Draft QB rankings: Caleb Williams leads top 10 prospects
2024 NFL Draft RB rankings: No clear stars, but deep top 10 prospects