Gardner Minshew replacement: Top 3 targets for Raiders after QB's season ending injury

On Sunday, the situation at quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders took another dramatic turn. Gardner Minshew sustained a devastating blow in the 29-19 loss to the Denver Broncos. He broke his collarbone, which ended his season prematurely.

Minshew's injury caps a tumultuous season. He started as the team's quarterback and was benched for Aidan O'Connell in Week 6. He was called back after O'Connell's thumb fracture and benched again in Week 10 for Desmond Ridder. He again returned as the starter before this season-ending injury.

With the Raiders at 2-9 and effectively out of playoff contention, three quarterback candidates emerge.

3 top QB candidates to be the next Raiders QB

#1. Daniel Jones

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NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports the Raiders are favorites to sign Daniel Jones. Recently waived by the New York Giants less than two years after signing a four-year, $160 million contract, Jones brings intriguing potential.

Jones offers the Raiders a chance to audition a potential future quarterback. His 69 career starts provide more experience than current backups. Interestingly, he's only three touchdown passes ahead of Gardner Minshew despite starting 24 more games.

Coach Antonio Pierce's Giants connection could smooth Jones' potential transition. The Raiders might view him as a bridge quarterback while preparing to draft a long-term solution in 2025.

#2. Ryan Tannehill

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On the other hand, Ryan Tannehill represents a different quarterback option to replace Gardner Minshew. At 36, he brings a track record of playoff appearances and Pro Bowl nominations. His experience could provide stability to a struggling quarterback room.

Tannehill might see the Raiders as an opportunity to prove his continued NFL relevance. With teams seeking high-level backup quarterbacks, his performance could relaunch his career. His proven leadership could mentor younger players like Aidan O'Connell.

#3. Aaron Rodgers

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Aaron Rodgers emerges as a fascinating long-shot possibility. Currently, at odds with the New York Jets, potential release rumors are swirling. Despite being 41, his current season stats are impressive: 2,442 yards, 17 touchdowns and only 7 interceptions.

Rodgers could offer a one-year mentorship opportunity. The Raiders could provide him a chance to exit the league on a high note while developing a young quarterback. His four-time MVP status adds significant credibility to any roster.

Whoever joins will need to navigate a team in transition. With a 2-9 record and multiple quarterback challenges, the right signal-caller could provide hope and direction for the franchise's future.

The next few weeks will be critical in determining the Raiders' quarterback strategy to replace Gardner Minshew. Jones, Tannehill and Rodgers each offer unique possibilities for a team seeking stability and potential.