DENVER – Matt McGloin's first start of the season did not go according to plan. The Raiders backup quarterback struggled filling in for injured starter Derek Carr, and never got a chance to course correct.
McGloin got hurt on his fourth series, taking an illegal shot to the shoulder and neck area in the second quarter of Sunday's 24-6 loss to the Denver Broncos. He did not return.
The Raiders said McGloin has a shoulder injury, but NFL Network reported that McGloin hurt his trapezius muscle, which was acting like a pinched nerve.
"I couldn't throw in the motion I'm used to," McGloin said. "I'll get in there tomorrow morning getting treatment and working to get healthy."
McGloin believes he can recover in time to play the postseason opener against Houston.
"That's my mindset right now. I want to play," McGloin said. "I wanted to play out there tonight, but it's about what's best for the team. If I'm not 100 percent healthy, that's not what this team needs. I plan on being 100 percent healthy and I'm going to do everything I can in the training room to get back to 100 percent."It remains uncertain whether Matt McGloin will start against the Texans, or if the Raiders will go to fourth-round rookie Connor Cook.
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The Michigan State alum made some rookie mistakes, but flashed arm talent and seemed calm in the pocket. Cook was 14-for-21 passing for 150 yards, a touchdown, an interception and a lost fumble.
McGloin completed 6-of-11 passes for 21 yards. He was inaccurate an inopportune times, including a few instances where receivers were open. McGloin has more experience, which suggests the Raiders could go with him if he's able to play. NFL Network reports there is some doubt McGloin will be ready to play.
"We'll see how healthy McGloin is and make the decision from there," Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio said. "Obviously he has more experience in our system, a little bit longer, but I thought Connor did a nice job with the opportunities he had."
