This is the big one because no role is as important as the starting quarterback job. As a rookie, Aidan O'Connell showed some flashes in 2023, finishing with a respectable 83.9 quarterback rating and a 5-5 record as the starter.

Because of his experience with players like Mayer, Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers, O'Connell may have the early edge in the QB competition.

"Aidan's earned the right to go out there and get the first snap," Pierce said, per ESPN's Paul Gutierrez. "What he's done this offseason -- changing his body, his work ethic, being here every day, blocking out the outside noise. He's not worried about anything. I'm excited."

Of course, the Raiders brought in Gardner Minshew on a two-year, $25 million deal in free agency. That's not the type of contract that suggests either quarterback will be handed the starting job.

And Minshew, who made the Pro Bowl as an alternate last season, could provide an upgrade. He stepped in for an injured Anthony Richardson in 2023 and nearly led the Indianapolis Colts to the playoffs.

Minshew can provide a bit of a roller-coaster experience at quarterback, but he's serviceable when given the opportunity to start. With a career 90.2 QB rating, he's better than what some teams are likely to trot out in 2024.

If Minshew wins the starting job or pushes O'Connell to beat him out, Las Vegas should have improved quarterback play this season. If they do, they'll have a chance to make real noise in the division this season.