Hostetler Reportedly Close to Signing With the Raiders

Free-agent quarterback Jeff Hostetler is close to signing a multiyear contract with the Raiders, according to several NFL sources.

After being spurned by the New York Giants when Coach Dan Reeves opted in favor of Phil Simms, Hostetler has reportedly narrowed his choices to the Minnesota Vikings and the Raiders.

Hostetler’s agent, Marvin Demoff, said Saturday that a deal with the Raiders has not yet been made. However, sources close to the Giants say an offer has been made and that Hostetler might sign with the Raiders as early as today. “It would be accurate to say that he is leaning toward the Raiders,” a source in New York said. “But, it would be inaccurate to say that he has already signed.”

This weekend marks the beginning of the NFL’s annual owners meetings in Palm Desert, and many free agents will be shopped around, including Hostetler.

Hostetler, 31, went looking for a new team after the Giants signed Simms, 37, to a two-year contract. Last week, Hostetler met with Raider owner Al Davis as well as Coach Art Shell and quarterback coach Mike White.

The Raiders struggled last season with three quarterbacks--Todd Marinovich, Jay Schroeder and Vince Evans--and were determined to upgrade the position during the off-season.

Hostetler is known for the role he played in the Giants’ Super Bowl victory in 1991, when he replaced the injured Simms and led New York past Buffalo. He started in 12 of New York’s 14 victories the past two seasons and passed for 1,225 yards with eight touchdowns and three interceptions last season.