Oakland Raiders QB Andrew Walter

A lot of people are either singing Walter's praises or calling him the next Kerry Collins this offseason. He hasn't gotten any oppertunities to play any regular season games yet, but lets look at what he has accomplished.

College Career
In 2002, Walter completed 274 out of 483 passes for 3877 yards and 28 touchdowns while throwing 15 interceptions. He lead Arizona State to an 8-6 record.

In 2003, Walter completed 221 out of 421 passes for 3044 yards and 24 touchdowns while throwing 10 interceptions. He lead Arizona State to a 5-7 record.

In 2004, Walter completed 224 out of 426 passes for 3150 yards and 30 touchdowns while throwing only 9 interceptions. He lead Arizona State to a 9-3 record.

All things considered, Walter had a very productive college career. He only had one losing season and Arizona State finished with a 22-16 record. He didn't have the supporting cast that a lot of the more heralded quarterbacks did but was just as productive.

NFL 2005 Preseason
In his rookie preseason, Walter completed 26 out of 44 passes for 352 yards and 1 touchdown while throwing 2 interceptions.

This isn't very impressive, but it is important to note that while the numbers may not look outstanding, Walter played better than is shown. He made good reads and showed confidence in his arm. He also played with backups and against backups so it's hard to translate these numbers into regular season play. The preseason is all about learning. Experience and time will improve him.

Just for a comparison:
In the 2003 Preseason, Carson Palmer completed 37 out of 54 passes for 451 yards and 4 touchdowns while throwing 4 interceptions.

His Future?
His college and preseason numbers may not be earth-shattering but they are solid. Walter has much support throughout the organization, from the front office to some of the players. Depending on Walter's preseason play, he may get a shot this season if Brooks falters.

If not this season, he will eventually. Aaron Brooks may not be around next season without restructuring his contract and career backup Marques Tuiasosopo will be a free agent. Depending on the coaching staff's confidence in Walter after this season, he could be our starting quarterback in 2007. He is the future of the Raiders and though he is unproven, he has a ton of potential.