Christian Ponder: Former Vikings QB in trouble in Oakland?

It’s still early but Christian Ponder may already be in a little bit of trouble as he battles to prove himself with the Oakland Raiders.

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When Oakland signed Ponder to a 1-year/$2.25 million deal earlier this year, the assumption was that the former #12 overall pick of the Vikings would come into camp firmly entrenched as the #2 QB behind Derek Carr.

One optimistic soul (whose name rhymes with Mid Martman) even suggested Ponder might have a chance to push Carr for the starting position.

But with camp now underway, Ponder can’t even be thinking about pushing Derek Carr because he’s too busy fending off #3 QB Matt McGloin.

McGloin pushing Ponder for backup job already, getting some second-team snaps. #Raiders
— Vic Tafur (@VicTafur) July 31, 2015

Let’s not forget that McGloin has some starting experience himself and, though he may not be the most talented player in the world, he is a gritty, gutty competitor.

At the risk of getting ahead of myself, is it possible that Christian Ponder might not even make the Raiders’ regular season roster?

Ponder’s pay-out of $1.5 million in guaranteed money would seem to suggest that his roster spot is safe. But you never can tell in the NFL. If McGloin is that much better than Ponder, the Raiders might just eat that guaranteed money and give Ponder his walking papers rather than waste a roster spot on a third QB they don’t really like.

What an ignominious end that would be for Ponder, dumped by the Oakland Raiders in favor of Matt McGloin. Good thing his wife is a solid earner.

Again, we are only a few days into training camp and a lot can happen. But right now Christian Ponder isn’t looking good. And honestly I can’t say I’m shocked.

Next: Bridgewater becoming tight with Wallace

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