Oakland Raiders sign QB Kyle Boller

The Oakland Raiders have signed unrestricted free agent quarterback Kyle Boller formerly of the St Louis Rams. This gives the Raiders another veteran to provide competition in OTAs and training camp. He joins journeymen Charlie Frye and Bruce Gradkowksi as well as former top pick JaMarcus Russell on the Raiders roster.

Boller was the 19th overall pick by the Baltimore Ravens out of California in 2003. He played for the Ravens for five years before giving way to Joe Flacco. He was cut loose by Baltimore after five years with a 71.9 quarterback rating. He was the starter for two years before he was replaced by Anthony Wright. In 2006, the Ravens acquired the veteran Steve McNair relegating Boller to the bench. He spent 2009 with the Rams where he was 98 for 176 with 899 yards and 3 tds and 6 interceptions.

When Boller had his best year at Cal in 2002, current Raiders offensive line coach Jim Michalczik was an assistant coach. Offensive coordinator Hue Jackson was his quarterback coach with the Ravens in 2008.

Boller is a big armed quarterback of the type that Al Davis covets. He wowed the scouts at his Pro Day by throwing the ball through the goal posts from 50 yard-line on one knee.

Boller will likely be batting Charlie Frye for the third quarterback spot, with Gradkowski fighting to dethrone Russell since it is “his job to lose.” It is doubtful that he is envisioned as a legitimate threat to become the starter.