Dennis Allen might not be thinking it, but Terrelle Pryor certainly is. The Oakland Raiders quarterback roster is getting crowded and someone will likely be the odd man out after the NFL Draft. After getting replaced by Matt McGloin midway through last season, Pryor is pretty aware that he will be that quarterback that draws the shortest straw so he is beating the Raiders to the bunch and simply requesting a trade out.
According to FOX Sports, Pryor has formally requested a trade from the Oakland Raiders following their deal to acquire Matt Schaub. Pryor was already going to be playing second string in 2014 after getting replaced by McGloin, but now with Schaub in the picture he is likely moved down to third string. So instead, Pryor is aiming to be moved to a team that views him as a potential starter rather than a bench player.
This request contradicts what head coach Allen recently said. While announcing the Schaub deal, Allen said that brining in the veteran will only help the two young quarterbacks develop into better players. He hinted that the Raiders were aiming to keep both McGloin and Pryor on the roster so they can learn under Schaub next season.
Pryor's trade value is not high. The quarterback certainly possesses some dynamic talent as a read-option quarterback which could be enticing to any team. However, while he can outrun any defense, his throwing skills need improvement. In 11 games last season, Pryor threw for 1,798 yards for seven touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He also fumbled the ball five times. Plus, with Mark Sanchez now on the market, he is ranked above Pryor for teams in need of a quarterback.
There are a few possible options for Pryor. The Carolina Panthers are in the market for a backup quarterback. They recently inquired about Michael Vick before he signed over to the New York Jets. Pryor can be compared to Cam Newton with their dual-threat abilities. The Panthers would not have to change offensive plans if Newton were to get injured.
The Philadelphia Eagles are another shot. The team has Nick Foles as their starter with Matt Barkley as the backup. Pryor has the talents to fit in well with a Chip Kelly offense. He is dynamic and fast, two traits that are key in the Philadelphia offense.
The likelihood that Pryor gets traded is slim. If the Jets were unable to trade Sanchez, getting a deal for Pryor is very slim. If FOX Sports is correct and Pryor wants out, the Raiders may just give him his wish by releasing him.
