In a bold move, Las Vegas Raiders interim manager Antonio Pierce has decided to elevate quarterback Carter Bradley from the practice squad to the active roster ahead of the team’s critical showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs. The decision signals Pierce’s concerns about Gardner Minshew II’s ability to deliver in this high-stakes game, as Minshew has struggled to find consistency and effectiveness under center this season. With the Raiders sitting at a precarious 2-5, Pierce is looking for a spark in the lineup to help turn their season around against their fierce divisional rival.
Bradley, an undrafted rookie out of South Alabama, joined the Raiders’ practice squad earlier in the season and has since made a positive impression on the coaching staff. Known for his solid mechanics, quick release, and leadership on the field, Bradley put up impressive stats during his college career, setting several school records and showing an ability to handle pressure. While he lacks NFL game experience, Bradley has quickly adapted to the Raiders’ playbook and could bring a fresh approach to an offense that has struggled to find rhythm under Minshew.
For Pierce, the decision to elevate Bradley appears to be as much about sending a message as it is about bolstering the depth chart. Since taking over as interim head coach, Pierce has emphasized accountability, and his decision reflects a no-nonsense approach to evaluating talent. Minshew’s recent performances have raised questions, and while he was signed to add experience, his inconsistency has put the Raiders in a difficult spot. The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, will undoubtedly test the Raiders’ defense, making it crucial for the offense to produce points and control the game tempo—something that’s been challenging with Minshew at the helm.
With Bradley now on the active roster, the Raiders have flexibility should Minshew falter or if they want to try a different approach offensively. Aidan O’Connell, the Raiders’ primary backup, has seen limited action but hasn’t fully secured the trust of the coaching staff as a go-to solution, leaving the door open for Bradley to possibly see snaps in the right situation. Pierce’s decision underscores his willingness to make difficult calls in his quest to instill a culture of competitiveness and resilience.
Elevating Bradley before a game of this magnitude may signal that Pierce wants to shake things up and is willing to experiment if it means finding a winning formula. The Chiefs are one of the league’s toughest opponents, and with the Raiders desperate to stay in the playoff hunt, Pierce is looking for any advantage he can find. Bradley’s youth and unfamiliarity to opposing defenses could even work to the Raiders’ benefit, adding an element of surprise should he get a chance to play.
The move also highlights the Raiders’ broader struggles to find stability at quarterback following several seasons of uncertainty. With Pierce at the helm, it’s clear he’s evaluating all options and won’t shy away from making tough choices if he feels it’s in the team’s best interest. As the Raiders prepare for this pivotal clash, all eyes will be on the quarterback position to see if Bradley can bring a spark to a team in need of fresh momentum.
