Carson Palmer’s NFL Career Is Being Wasted with the Oakland Raiders

As Carson Palmer continues his first full season as the Oakland Raiders' signal-caller, he is showing his ability to still be considered a quality quarterback in this league.

His career has certainly been filled with disappointing moments since entering the league in 2004. While he has shown us small samples of his potential to be an elite quarterback in the NFL, his inability to lead the Bengals to success in the postseason never warranted praise for the former first-round pick.

Palmer became fed up with the losing culture in Cincinnati, as he settled with retirement despite the millions that he left on the table. However, he received an opportunity for a new chapter in his career.

The Raiders were in need of a quarterback following the injury to Jason Campbell, and the variety of young offensive talent intrigued Palmer.

Although he struggled mightily in 2011, it became evident that the addition of a full training camp and offseason program benefited Palmer this season.

He currently ranks third in the NFL in passing, trailing only Drew Brees and Matt Ryan in that category. He orchestrated a notable win against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and almost led his team to what would have been a monumental victory against the Atlanta Falcons.

Palmer has done his part this season. When healthy, his overall performance this year has ranked within the top half of quarterbacks this season.

If only the Raiders could do their part to become a playoff contender instead of wasting the few good years left in Palmer's career.

Palmer deserves more credit because of the talent that he has at his disposal each week. Denarius Moore has provided the potential to be a special receiver in this league, and has improved immensely under Palmer. However, Moore's injury history has cost him valuable playing time during his career.

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