Las Vegas Raiders

QB Ponder growing into his role as Raiders backup

Published May. 26, 2015 10:34 p.m. ET

foxsports

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."

(h/t Inside Bay Area)