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Jon Gruden Defends Derek Carr, Says Antonio Brown's Departure Impacted Offense

Raiders coach Jon Gruden is standing by quarterback Derek Carr despite the offense's recent struggles.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Gruden defended Carr while acknowledging that the departure of Antonio Brown two days before the season opener is still affecting his offense.

"It's caused us a little bit of, re-thinking," Gruden said, per ESPN. "When you lose your starting 'Z,' who arguably is a great player, I don't think anyone's going to dispute that, you have to replace him. And we're making an effort to move Tyrell (Williams) around, we're bringing on some younger guys.