Analyst Advises Raiders to Bench Rookie QB

Former NFL star Chad Johnson believes veteran QB should start Week 1

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting in black, silver, and white tones, depicting a football game broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes, representing the complex factors involved in the Raiders' quarterback decision.A cubist interpretation of the strategic decision facing the Raiders' coaching staff as they determine their starting quarterback for the upcoming season.Las Vegas Today

Former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson has weighed in on the Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback situation, advising the team to start the veteran QB over their rookie signal-caller in Week 1 of the upcoming NFL season.

Why it matters

The Raiders' quarterback decision will have a major impact on their chances of success in the upcoming season, as the starting QB will be tasked with leading the team's offense. Johnson's perspective as a former NFL player carries weight, and his recommendation to bench the rookie in favor of the veteran could influence the team's strategy.

The details

In an interview with Vegas Sports Today's Mike Dixon, Johnson argued that the "best guy is going to play in Week 1" for the Raiders, implying that the veteran QB should get the nod over the rookie. Johnson's reasoning likely centers around the veteran's experience and ability to better handle the pressure of starting in Week 1, compared to the rookie who may need more time to adjust to the NFL game.

  • The interview with Chad Johnson took place on April 17, 2026.

The players

Chad Johnson

A former wide receiver who played 11 seasons in the NFL, primarily for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Mike Dixon

The host of the Vegas Sports Today program, where he interviewed Chad Johnson.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The best guy is going to play in Week 1.”

— Chad Johnson, Former NFL wide receiver

The takeaway

Chad Johnson's recommendation to the Raiders to start the veteran QB in Week 1 highlights the importance of quarterback stability and experience, especially early in the season. The team will have to weigh Johnson's advice against their own evaluation of the players' readiness and potential for long-term success.