Las Vegas, Nevada - In a shocking announcement, the Las Vegas Raiders said they will bench longtime starting quarterback Derek Carr for the team's final games of the NFL regular season.

First-year coach Josh McDaniels will start quarterback Jarrett Stidham against the 49ers this Sunday at Allegiant Stadium, with undrafted rookie free agent Chase Garbers as a backup. Carr has started for the team since 2014.

"None of us is happy with where we're at, but we think it's an opportunity to evaluate a younger player who hasn't had much time to play," McDaniels said during a press conference.

"Derek was great. He understands the scenario that we're in and the situation and is very supportive of the two young guys. He'll do anything he can to help them."

Stidham, a 2019 fourth-round pick, was an offseason trade from the New England Patriots. He will make his first ever career start, having completed only 8 of 13 passes for 72 yards in three games this season.

The surprising change comes after Carr has seemingly struggled this year - his first season under the Raiders' new leadership of McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler.

The three-time Pro Bowl passer is having arguably his worst season yet, with a passer rating of 86.3 - his lowest since his rookie season. He also has thrown an NFL high of 14 interceptions this year. The number is also tied with his previous career high of 14, reached last season.

The previously acclaimed QB, who holds almost every passing record in Raiders history, signed a three-year, $121.5 million contract extension in the spring. If the team trades him, he could be hit with a $5.625 million salary-cap if the move is made within three days of the Super Bowl.

While the Raiders (6-9) are still mathematically alive for a spot in the playoffs, they will need big performances against the 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs to close out the regular season.