- Aidan O'Connell
- #12
- Team LV
- Pos QB
- Status AActive
-
Emergency QB3 for Week 17
O'Connell (coach's decision) is inactive but will serve as the Raiders' emergency third quarterback against the Giants on Sunday.
Analysis: O'Connell will not be allowed to play Sunday unless both Geno Smith and Kenny Pickett were to be taken out of the game due to injury, illness or ejection. O'Connell has yet to see regular-season action in 2025.
Published: Sun, Dec 28 at 11:43am by Rotowire.com
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Emergency QB for Week 14
O'Connell (coach's decision) is inactive but will serve as the Raiders' emergency third quarterback for Sunday's game against the Broncos.
Analysis: As the emergency QB3, O'Connell is not allowed to play Sunday unless both Geno Smith and Kenny Pickett leave the game due to injury, illness or ejection.
Published: Sun, Dec 7 at 11:42am by Rotowire.com
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Emergency QB3 for Week 13
O'Connell (coach's decision) is inactive but will serve as the Raiders' emergency third quarterback against the Chargers on Sunday.
Analysis: For a second straight week, O'Connell will be the Raiders' QB3 behind Geno Smith and Kenny Pickett. As the emergency quarterback, O'Connell is not allowed to play Sunday unless both Smith and Pickett were to leave the game due to injury, illness or ejection.
Published: Sun, Nov 30 at 12:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Emergency No. 3 QB
O'Connell is the Raiders' inactive emergency third QB for Sunday's game against the Browns.
Analysis: The Raiders activated O'Connell -- who had fractured his right wrist in August -- from injured reserve Wednesday. Now that he's available, however, O'Connell is currently behind both Geno Smith and Kenny Pickett in the Raiders' signal-caller pecking order.
Published: Sun, Nov 23 at 11:49am by Rotowire.com
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All clear for Week 12
O'Connell, who was activated off IR on Wednesday, does not have an injury designation for Sunday's matchup against Cleveland.
Analysis: O'Connell will be eligible to play for the first time this season after spending the first 11 weeks of the campaign on IR while recovering from a fractured wrist. With that said, it's unclear what the Raiders plan to do at the quarterback position Sunday and beyond. Geno Smith is in line for another start, but it hasn't yet been clarified if O'Connell or Kenny Pickett will be the No. 2 QB against Cleveland this weekend. Beyond that, Smith has struggled this season, and the Raiders -- who enter…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 21 at 4:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Activated from IR
The Raiders activated O'Connell (wrist) from injured reserve Wednesday.
Analysis: O'Connell fractured his right wrist during the preseason and was out for more than two months before returning to practice at the end of October. Geno Smith's poor performance this season could open the door for O'Connell and/or Kenny Pickett to make starts down the stretch.
Published: Wed, Nov 19 at 11:45am by Rotowire.com
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Not ready to return
O'Connell (wrist) has been ruled out for Monday's game against Dallas, Anthony Galaviz of The Fresno Bee reports.
Analysis: Despite being a full participant in practice all week, the Raiders will leave O'Connell on injured reserve for Week 11. His 21-day window to return from IR opened Oct. 29, and if he's not activated from IR before the window closes, he would be required to sit out for the entire 2025 season. Kenny Pickett will serve as Geno Smith's backup quarterback for Monday's home contest.
Published: Sat, Nov 15 at 4:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Remaining on IR for Week 10
O'Connell (wrist) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Broncos.
Analysis: O'Connell has been a full practice participant since his 21-day practice window opened Oct. 29, but the third-year pro is not quite ready to be activated from injured reserve. O'Connell is recovering from surgery to repair a fractured right wrist that he sustained during the preseason, but with the Raiders on a bye Week 11, he has a good shot at being available for Week 12 against the Cowboys on Monday, Nov. 17. Kenny Pickett will continue to serve as the Raiders' backup quarterback behind…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 5 at 4:40pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't return for Week 9
O'Connell (wrist) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's game against the Jaguars.
Analysis: O'Connell has been sidelined all season while recovering from wrist surgery. He practiced fully all week but will not return Sunday, leaving Kenny Pickett as the Raiders' backup quarterback.
Published: Fri, Oct 31 at 5:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Practices fully
O'Connell (wrist) practiced in full Wednesday, Ryan McFadden of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: O'Connell fractured his wrist late in the preseason and has been sidelined since. It's positive that he was immediately able to log a full practice, but he will still need to be activated from injured reserve before suiting up for game action.
Published: Wed, Oct 29 at 4:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Practice window to open
The Raiders intend to designate O'Connell (wrist) for a return to practice from IR in Week 9, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: O'Connell has missed the entire regular season so far due to a right wrist fracture suffered in late August, but it sounds like Las Vegas will open his 21-day practice window as soon as Wednesday. Once healthy, O'Connell will provide the Raiders with a new No. 3 quarterback option behind Geno Smith and Kenny Pickett.
Published: Wed, Oct 29 at 7:14am by Rotowire.com
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Heading to IR
The Raiders are placing O'Connell (wrist) on injured reserve, Ryan McFadden of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Las Vegas general manger John Spytek said Wednesday that O'Connell is recovering from surgery undergone to address the right wrist fracture he suffered this preseason, per McFadden. As a response, Raiders traded for Kenny Pickett (hamstring) from Cleveland to back up Geno Smith on Monday. O'Connell will be required to miss at least the first four games of the regular season as a result of his placement on IR, and once healthy it seems as though he'll slide to the No. 3 quarterback spot behind…read more
Published: Wed, Aug 27 at 3:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to miss 6-to-8 weeks
O'Connell has a fractured right wrist and is likely to miss 6-to-8 weeks, Ryan McFadden of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: O'Connell suffered the injury during Saturday's preseason loss to Arizona. It's the second major injury in as many years for the 2023 fourth-round draft selection, who had a stint on IR last season due to a fractured thumb. O'Connell had been slated to be Las Vegas' No. 2 QB behind Geno Smith, but that role now may go to rookie Cam Smith -- at least for the first several weeks of the regular season -- unless the team acquires another QB in free agency or via trade.
Published: Sun, Aug 24 at 7:52am by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out with wrist injury
O'Connell won't return to Saturday's preseason game at Arizona due to a right wrist injury, Vincent Bonsignore of the Las Vegas Review-Journal reports.
Analysis: After starting quarterback Geno Smith led the Raiders to a touchdown on their opening possession, O'Connell took over the offense for two drives of his own, one in which he lost a fumble and the other that resulted in a successful Daniel Carlson field goal. Per Ryan McFadden of ESPN.com, O'Connell then went to the locker room before being ruled out. Cam Miller entered the contest in place of O'Connell.
Published: Sat, Aug 23 at 8:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Stuck in backup role again
The Raiders recently traded for Geno Smith, leaving O'Connell as the likely No. 2 quarterback for 2025.
Analysis: O'Connell got a chance to compete for the starting job last summer, losing out to Gardner Minshew (collarbone) but then taking over mid-season. Minshew ended up taking the job back after O'Connell suffered a thumb fracture, with things later swinging back to the latter after the former broke his collarbone. The team released Minshew on Wednesday, leaving O'Connell in the clear for the second spot on the depth chart, albeit presumably without any chance to push Smith for the starting role.
Published: Thu, Mar 13 at 11:52am by Rotowire.com
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Throws momentum-changing pick
O'Connell completed 24 of 34 passes for 214 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 34-20 loss to the Chargers. He added four rushes for 13 yards.
Analysis: O'Connell had effective moments early in the contest, particularly on a drive early in the second quarter during which he threw for 47 yards, including a 25-yard touchdown strike to Jakobi Meyers. However, he threw an interception just before halftime that resulted in the Chargers cashing in a touchdown, shifting the momentum in the game and seemingly taking the Raiders out of any offensive rhythm. O'Connell was also shaken up on a play during the came and backup Desmond Ridder came in for a…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 5 at 7:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Tosses two TDs in win
O'Connell completed 20 of 35 passes for 242 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 25-10 win over the Saints.
Analysis: The second-year QB hit Jakobi Meyers for a three-yard score in the second quarter that put the Raiders in the lead for good, then capped his day with an 18-yard TD to Tre Tucker in the fourth. O'Connell is having a decent finish to the season, accounting for five touchdowns (four passing, one rushing) in his last four appearances against only one INT, but Las Vegas is still almost certain to look for an upgrade in the offseason. O'Connell will try to wrap up the campaign in style in Week 18…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 29 at 7:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Manages Raiders to victory
O'Connell completed 24 of 38 passes for 257 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in Sunday's 19-14 win over the Jaguars. He added seven rushes for 12 yards.
Analysis: O'Connell returned from a one-game absence and stabilized the Raiders' offense by not turning the ball over and taking only two sacks. He also completed three passes of at least 20 yards, two of which came in the first quarter. O'Connell has now thrown for multiple touchdowns in only one of his four starts on the season, but he has shown the ability to get the ball to the Raiders' top playmakers at a consistent clip.
Published: Sun, Dec 22 at 8:51pm by Rotowire.com
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No Week 16 injury designation
O'Connell (knee) doesn't carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Jaguars after practicing fully this week.
Analysis: Per Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com, head coach Antonio Pierce noted earlier Friday that O'Connell "should be good to go" and start Sunday versus Jacksonville. With the QB subsequently maintaining his full participation level and avoiding a Week 16 injury designation, O'Connell is poised to return the lineup after being inactive for this past Monday's loss to the Falcons, a game started by Desmond Ridder.
Published: Fri, Dec 20 at 2:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Back from knee injury
O'Connell (knee) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, Paul Guteirrez of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: O'Connell's ability to practice without limitations suggests he'll be healthy enough to start in Sunday's game against the Jaguars, barring a setback. His return under center is welcome news for Raiders pass catchers Jakobi Meyers and Brock Bowers, who combined for only 94 receiving yards in Desmond Ridder's spot start during Monday's 15-9 loss to the Falcons.
Published: Wed, Dec 18 at 1:54pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns to practice
O'Connell (knee) returned to practice Wednesday, Kevin Bollinger of Fox 5 Las Vegas reports.
Analysis: Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce said Tuesday that O'Connell is trending toward playing in Sunday's game against Jacksonville, after the quarterback sat out a 15-9 loss to the Falcons on Monday. O'Connell didn't practice at all last week but was available as the emergency No. 3 quarterback in Monday's loss, with Desmond Ridder drawing the start and Carter Bradley serving as the top backup.
Published: Wed, Dec 18 at 11:51am by Rotowire.com
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Trending toward Week 16 return
Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce said Tuesday that O'Connell (knee) is "trending upwards to play" Sunday against Jacksonville, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: O'Connell was inactive for Monday's loss to the Falcons, but he was cleared to operate as Las Vegas' emergency third quarterback. Desmond Ridder struggled in his spot start versus Atlanta, throwing for 208 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in. A return to the lineup on O'Connell's part could provide a spark to the Las Vegas offense, which would be especially notable for rookie tight end Brock Bowers, who was limited to three catches for 35 yards (on six targets) with Ridder under…read more
Published: Tue, Dec 17 at 11:12am by Rotowire.com
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Inactive, but emergency third QB
O'Connell (knee) is inactive for Monday night's game against the Falcons, but he's available as the Raiders' emergency third quarterback behind Desmond Ridder and Carter Bradley.
Analysis: O'Connell was deemed a non-participant in practice Thursday through Saturday and approached the contest listed as questionable, but the bone bruise to his left knee that he sustained during Week 14 action will end up sidelining the QB on Monday. In O'Connell's place, Ridder is in line to make his first start for the Raiders, while O'Connell will target a potential return to action this coming Sunday versus the Jaguars.
Published: Mon, Dec 16 at 4:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Looks like game-time decision
O'Connell (knee) will use a pregame workout Monday to determine whether he'll play versus the Falcons, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: O'Connell didn't practice at all during the week due to a knee issue he picked up Week 14 at Tampa Bay, so Las Vegas is preparing as though 2022 third-rounder Desmond Ridder will start at quarterback Week 15. Whoever steps under center for the Raiders on Monday will be looking at an Atlanta defense that's been less than impressive so far this season, especially against the pass.
Published: Mon, Dec 16 at 10:19am by Rotowire.com
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No practice, still questionable
O'Connell (knee) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Falcons, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: O'Connell didn't practice all week, but the Raiders are evidently giving the second-year quarterback every avenue possible to return Monday from an injury, later discovered to be a bone bruise, that was so serious it required an MRI earlier in the week. In the event O'Connell can't play, Las Vegas would likely turn to Desmond Ridder against his former team. Expect more clarification regarding O'Connell's status to come before the 8:30 p.m. ET kickoff Monday.
Published: Sat, Dec 14 at 1:57pm by Rotowire.com
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Not practicing Friday
Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce said Friday that O'Connell (knee) is not participating in practice, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: O'Connell now has missed back-to-back practices since participating in Wednesday's walkthrough. The second-year quarterback is nursing a bone bruise to his left knee sustained during Las Vegas' loss to Tampa Bay in Week 14. His final chance to get back on the practice field prior to Monday's game will come Saturday. Desmond Ridder will enter the Raiders' starting lineup versus Atlanta in the event that O'Connell can't suit up.
Published: Fri, Dec 13 at 11:08am by Rotowire.com
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Doesn't practice Thursday
O'Connell (knee) didn't practice Thursday.
Analysis: Per Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com, O'Connell suffered a bone bruise to his left knee late in the third quarter of the Raiders' loss to the Buccaneers this past Sunday. O'Connell now has two more opportunities to practice ahead of Monday night's game against the Falcons. If O'Connell is unavailable for the contest, Desmond Ridder would be in line to draw the Week 15 start at QB for Las Vegas.
Published: Thu, Dec 12 at 2:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Slated to practice Wednesday
Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce said that O'Connell (knee) is in line to participate in Wednesday's walk-through practice, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Though O'Connell's presence on the field in any capacity three days after suffering a bone bruise in his left knee in Sunday's loss to the Buccaneers is a positive indicator, Pierce wouldn't commit to the quarterback being available for the Raiders' Week 15 matchup with the Falcons on Monday night. Pierce noted that how O'Connell looks in practice this week will be the deciding factor in whether he starts this week, and if the second-year signal-caller isn't available to play, the Raiders would…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 11 at 10:32am by Rotowire.com
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Not yet ruled out for Week 15
O'Connell has been diagnosed with a bone bruise in his left knee following an MRI undergone Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: O'Connell was forced out of Sunday's 28-13 loss to the Buccaneers with an air cast on his left leg, and he had to be carted off the field. All things considered, being diagnosed with only a bone bruise is a near best-case scenario for the second-year quarterback. Head coach Antonio Pierce said Monday he expects Desmond Ridder to start versus Atlanta on Monday Night Football, but it looks like O'Connell still could have a chance to start Week 15 if he can log a good week of practice.
Published: Mon, Dec 9 at 12:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Coach pessimistic with MRI upcoming
Coach Antonio Pierce said after Sunday's 28-13 loss to the Buccaneers that O'Connell's knee injury "doesn't look good," per Vic Tafur of The Athletic, and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that O'Connell is set to undergo additional testing Monday.
Analysis: O'Connell needed an air cast on his left leg immediately after getting hurt against the Buccaneers and was carted off the field. While official word on the severity of the injury won't come until after the results of Monday's MRI, it's likely that O'Connell's injury will keep him from suiting up for the Raiders' remaining four games, which would thrust Desmond Ridder into a starting role.
Published: Mon, Dec 9 at 7:06am by Rotowire.com
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Hurts knee Sunday
O'Connell was forced out of Sunday's game against the Buccaneers with a knee injury.
Analysis: Per Tashan Reed of The Athletic, O'Connell's left leg was placed in an air cast prior to him being carted off the field Sunday. With O'Connell having suffered a potentially serious injury, Desmond Ridder is in line to take over at QB for the Raiders versus Tampa Bay.
Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 12:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Good to go against Bucs
O'Connell (illness) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: O'Connell missed practice Thursday but returned to full participation Friday and is good to go for Sunday's contest. He'll face a Buccaneers defense that's allowing the third-most passing yards per game in the NFL, but it remains to be seen if O'Connell will be joined by wide receiver Jakobi Meyers or running back Alexander Mattison, who are both listed as questionable due to ankle injuries.
Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 1:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Resumes practicing in full
Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce said Friday that O'Connell (illness) will be a full participant in practice, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: O'Connell missed practice Thursday due to an illness, but he's now back on full track for Sunday's road matchup against the Buccaneers. Pierce said the same is true of No. 1 wideout Jakobi Meyers, who sat out Thursday due to an ankle issue. It will be to the notable benefit of O'Connell -- who completed 23 of 35 passes for 340 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions during last week's 19-17 loss to the Chiefs -- to have Meyers and rookie tight end Brock Bowers, his two top targets, both…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 9:41am by Rotowire.com
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Misses Thursday's practice
O'Connell didn't practice Thursday due to an illness.
Analysis: O'Connell practiced fully Wednesday, but his absence a day later makes his status for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers worth tracking. Friday's injury report will reveal whether there's any chance that the illness that sidelined O'Connell on Thursday could affect his Week 14 availability. Desmond Ridder is the Raiders' backup quarterback and would presumably start in the event O'Connell isn't healthy enough to do so Sunday.
Published: Thu, Dec 5 at 1:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Strong game marred by miscue
O'Connell completed 23 of 35 passes for 340 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions and netted no gain on one rush in the Raiders' 19-17 loss to the Chiefs on Friday. He also lost a fumble.
Analysis: Seeing his first action since Week 7 due to a thumb injury, O'Connell arguably outplayed Patrick Mahomes but still saw the Raiders come up short partly through his own doing. O'Connell's passing yardage total was easily a new career high, and his multi-touchdown tally, which consisted of second-half scoring tosses to Brock Bowers (33 yards) and Tre Tucker (58 yards), was his first of the 2024 season. The second-year signal-caller also spread the ball around to seven different targets, but he…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 29 at 3:57pm by Rotowire.com
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Officially activated off IR
O'Connell (thumb) was activated off injured reserve Thursday ahead of Friday's game against the Chiefs.
Analysis: O'Connell's activation corresponds with fellow quarterback Gardner Minshew (collarbone) landing on IR. O'Connell was deemed a full participant on the Raiders' injury report Tuesday through Thursday and heads into Friday without a designation, lining him up to start against Kansas City. Prior to hurting his thumb, O'Connell had completed 52 of 82 passes for 455 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions over four games.
Published: Thu, Nov 28 at 9:48am by Rotowire.com
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Named Week 13 starter
Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce said Wednesday that O'Connell (thumb) will start Friday's game at Kansas City, Levi Edwards of the Raiders' official site reports.
Analysis: The Raiders listed O'Connell as a full practice participant Tuesday, one day after designating him from return from injured reserve. Las Vegas apparently plans to activate him from IR before Friday's game and put him back in the starting role. O'Connell took the job from Gardner Minshew (collarbone) going into Week 6, but then suffered a fractured thumb on his throwing hand in his second start in Week 7. Minshew has started each subsequent game, with Desmond Ridder subbing in a couple of times,…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 27 at 11:30am by Rotowire.com
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Deemed full participant in practice
O'Connell was estimated as a full participant in Tuesday's walk-through practice, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The wheels were set in motion for O'Connell to return from a four-game absence when Las Vegas designated him to return from injured reserve Monday, and the second-year quarterback now appears likely to start Friday against Kansas City after opening Week 13 prep as a full participant. Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported earlier Tuesday that O'Connell took first-team reps during a walkthrough Monday, suggesting that the Purdue product will be the Raiders' preferred option ahead of Desmond…read more
Published: Tue, Nov 26 at 5:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Trending toward Week 13 start
The Raiders are preparing for O'Connell (thumb) to start Friday's game at Kansas City, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: O'Connell remains on injured reserve, but the Raiders set in motion his potential return for Week 13 by opening his 21-day practice window Monday. According to Pelissero, O'Connell took all the first-team reps during Monday's unofficial practice session, while Desmond Ridder worked with the second team after coming on to replace the injured Gardner Minshew (collarbone) in Sunday's 29-19 loss to the Broncos. With Minshew out for the season, O'Connell should have the opportunity to start for the…read more
Published: Tue, Nov 26 at 7:22am by Rotowire.com
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Designated to return to practice
O'Connell (thumb) was designated to return to practice on Monday.
Analysis: The move arrives at an opportune time for the Raiders, with head coach Antonio Pierce having confirmed Monday that Gardner Minshew will be out for the rest of the season after suffering a broken collarbone Sunday, per Levi Edwards of the team's official site. As for O'Connell's potential availability for Friday's game against the Chiefs, Pierce noted that the signal-caller has "been ramping up," while acknowledging that a call on O'Connell's Week 13 status will be up to the Raiders' medical…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 25 at 3:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Will be designated for return
Coach Antonio Pierce said Monday that O'Connell (thumb) will be designated to return from injured reserve and participate in Tuesday's walk-through, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The Raiders' hope is that O'Connell will be ready to start Friday's Week 13 game against the Chiefs after Gardner Minshew suffered a season-ending broken collarbone in Sunday's loss to the Broncos. O'Connell broke his thumb in Week 7 after making a pair of starts and appearing in a total of four games to begin the 2024 campaign. With Minshew done for the year, it will be a chance for the Raiders to get another lengthy look at their second-year quarterback.
Published: Mon, Nov 25 at 11:37am by Rotowire.com
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Could return from IR in Week 13
The Raiders are hoping that O'Connell (thumb) will be ready to return from injured reserve and start their Week 13 game against Kansas City on Friday, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: O'Connell opened the season as the Raiders' No. 2 quarterback, but after coming on in relief for a struggling Gardner Minshew in Weeks 3 and 5, the second-year signal-caller took over as Las Vegas' starter in Week 6 before fracturing his right thumb in Week 7, resulting in his move to IR. O'Connell seems to have made good progress in his recovery, with head coach Antonio Pierce noting Sunday that the quarterback was able to do some throwing this past week. Assuming the Raiders open O'Connell's…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 25 at 6:40am by Rotowire.com
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Moves to IR
The Raiders placed O'Connell (thumb) on injured reserve Tuesday.
Analysis: According to Vic Tafur of The Athletic, O'Connell could miss 4-6 weeks while he recovers from a broken thumb on his throwing hand. The Raiders haven't revealed whether O'Connell will require surgery to address the injury, but in his absence, Gardner Minshew will step back into the starting role. The Raiders signed Desmond Ridder off the Cardinals' practice squad to provide depth behind Minshew.
Published: Tue, Oct 22 at 1:54pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to land on IR
The Raiders are expected to place O'Connell on IR due to a fractured thumb sustained during Sunday's 20-15 loss to the Rams, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: O'Connell could be sidelined up to six weeks, a development which puts Gardner Minshew back under center for Las Vegas. In his lone full start this season, O'Connell completed 27 of 40 pass attempts for 227 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Week 6 versus the Steelers. Across four appearances on the whole, O'Connell has thrown for 455 yards, two touchdowns and two INTs. Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that O'Connell will seek a second opinion Monday to confirm the severity of his injury.
Published: Mon, Oct 21 at 7:49am by Rotowire.com
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May have broken thumb
Based on preliminary tests, O'Connell is believed to have sustained a broken thumb during Sunday's game against the Rams, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Per the report, O'Connell will undergo further evaluation Monday to determine the extent of his thumb injury. If he ends up missing time beyond Sunday, Gardner Minshew would be in line to reclaim the Raiders' starting QB job.
Published: Sun, Oct 20 at 2:23pm by Rotowire.com
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Hurts thumb Sunday
O'Connell exited Sunday's game against the Rams after suffering a thumb injury.
Analysis: O'Connell had completed six of his 10 pass attempts for 52 yards prior to leaving the contest. In his absence, Gardner Minshew is in at QB for the Raiders.
Published: Sun, Oct 20 at 1:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Mediocre in first start of 2024
O'Connell completed 27 of 40 passes for 227 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 32-13 loss to the Steelers.
Analysis: O'Connell took over as the Raiders' starting quarterback and faced a tough test against the Pittsburgh defense. He got off to a hot start by leading Las Vegas to a touchdown on the team's opening possession, and he went 4-for-4 for 45 yards while working primarily in short areas of the field. While O'Connell remained accurate throughout the game, he was hesitant to push the ball downfield and had only one completion of more than 20 yards. Assuming he stays under center in Week 7 against the…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 13 at 8:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Taking over starting job
Head coach Antonio Pierce said Wednesday that O'Connell will replace Gardner Minshew as the Raiders' starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Steelers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Minshew is being demoted to the backup role after starting the first five games of the season. Pierce said he doesn't anticipate going back to Minshew, but the coach did leave the door open to make another change if he eventually feels one is needed, per Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com. O'Connell will start off with a home game against Pittsburgh, leading an offense that played its past two games without wideout Davante Adams (hamstring), tight end Michael Mayer (personal) and right tackle Thayer…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 9 at 11:59am by Rotowire.com
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Enters in relief again
O'Connell completed 10 of 20 passes for 93 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 34-18 loss to the Broncos.
Analysis: For the second time in the last three games, O'Connell replaced Gardner Minshew. O'Connell took over late in the third quarter and led four uneven possessions. He did lead a touchdown drive, during which he went 8-for-11 for 79 yards, though it came in garbage time and he rarely pushed the ball down the field. O'Connell also threw an interception and had a three-and-out. Despite O'Connell's ineffectiveness, coach Antonio Pierce declined to name a starter for a Week 6 matchup against the…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 6 at 5:39pm by Rotowire.com
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In line to remain No. 2 option
O'Connell is slated to remain the backup option under center for the Raiders for the team's Week 4 matchup with the Browns, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Head coach Antonio Pierce raised some eyebrows Monday when he hinted that a quarterback change could be on the horizon. However, Gardner Minshew is poised to get the nod for another start. Still, it looks like he's on a short leash as of now, meaning O'Connell could get the call at any point should Minshew struggle. The second-year signal-caller looked solid in garbage time Sunday, completing nine of 12 passes for 82 yards and one touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
Published: Mon, Sep 23 at 5:47pm by Rotowire.com
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Quarterback change may be coming
Raiders coach Antonio Pierce said Monday he hasn't ruled out O'Connell, who entered late during Sunday's 36-22 loss to the Panthers, starting over Gardner Minshew versus the Browns in Week 4, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: O'Connell looked solid in garbage time Sunday, completing nine of 12 passes for 82 yards and one touchdown late in the fourth quarter with Carolina having already firmly secured a win and focused on running out the clock. Still, with Minshew compiling only 214 passing yards, one touchdown and one interception in roughly three and a half quarters of play, it sounds like the Raiders will evaluate things under center. Pierce said Las Vegas was "just trying to look for a spark" by having O'Connell…read more
Published: Mon, Sep 23 at 1:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't play Friday
Coach Antonio Pierce said Wednesday that O'Connell won't play in Friday's preseason game against the 49ers, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Neither will Gardner Minshew, who was named the Week 1 starter Sunday. O'Connell will enter the regular season as the Raiders' No. 2 quarterback, after completing 21 of 29 passes for 176 yards, one TD and one INT in two preseason appearances.
Published: Thu, Aug 22 at 6:57am by Rotowire.com
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Loses out on starting job
Raiders coach Antonio Pierce announced Sunday that Gardner Minshew will be the team's starting quarterback over O'Connell to begin the 2024 season, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Pierce added during Sunday morning's press conference that experience was ultimately the team's deciding factor, stating that they "feel like [Minshew] gives us the best opportunity to get off to a fast start," according to Tashan Reed and Vic Tafur of The Athletic. O'Connell has more experience with the Raiders, starting 10 games with a 5-5 record and a 12:7 TD:INT during his 2023 rookie season. However, that falls short of the 37 career starts for Minshew, who also was named to his first…read more
Published: Sun, Aug 18 at 12:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Tosses TD pass Saturday
O'Connell completed 14 of 20 passes for 96 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the Raiders' 27-12 preseason loss to the Cowboys on Saturday night.
Analysis: O'Connell had his opportunity after Gardner Minshew led the first five drives for Las Vegas, and the two players finished with very similar numbers. O'Connell's middling 4.8 yards per attempt was marginally better than Minshew's 4.5, although the former did stand out with a five yard-touchdown toss to Harrison Bryant. O'Connell also subsequently saw a throw intended for Bryant returned for a pick-six on the first play of the fourth quarter, putting a damper on his overall performance. The…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 17 at 10:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Las Vegas nearing QB1 decision
Raiders coach Antonio Pierce said Sunday that he plans to name a starting quarterback between O'Connell and Gardner Minshew after Saturday's preseason game versus Dallas, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Pierce also said that O'Connell and Minshew are both slated to play at least one quarter during this exhibition with the Cowboys, which is in line with the playing time that they got during Saturday's 24-23 loss to Minnesota. O'Connell did ultimately start versus the Vikings, but he's been splitting first-team reps throughout training camp and appears to be on even footing with Minshew following the preseason opener. O'Connell was competent in his 11 regular-season appearances as a rookie last…read more
Published: Sun, Aug 11 at 12:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Sharp in preseason loss
O'Connell completed seven of nine passes for 76 yards in Saturday's 24-23 preseason loss to the Vikings.
Analysis: The second-year QB was expected to see about a quarter of action in the Raiders' preseason opener, but O'Connell wound up being under center for only a single possession as he led Las Vegas on a nearly eight-minute drive that ended in a first-quarter field goal. Gardner Minshew then took over to begin the second quarter and engineered three quick scoring drives before halftime, including two touchdowns. While O'Connell getting the start might suggest he's ahead in the battle to be the Week 1…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 10 at 8:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Set to play a quarter Saturday
Coach Antonio Pierce noted Monday that he expects both O'Connell and Gardner Minshew to play "a legit quarter" in Saturday's preseason opener against the Vikings, Kevin Patra of NFL.com reports.
Analysis: In terms of Saturday's contest, Pierce wouldn't announce a starter, suggesting that each QB would get a similar level of opportunity to make their case for depth chart slotting. "Who goes out first and who goes out second really doesn't matter. (They will) get hopefully an equal amount of snaps and opportunity to showcase," according to Pierce, who also indicated Monday via Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com that he doesn't "think we can sit there and say somebody's won yet."
Published: Mon, Aug 5 at 10:30am by Rotowire.com
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Splitting reps with Minshew
O'Connell and Gardner Minshew have been trading off first-team reps in training camp, Levi Edwards of the Raiders' official site and Tashan Reed of The Athletic report.
Analysis: The fact that the two QBs have essentially been alternating first-team snaps on a practice-by-practice basis as the coaching staff gives both players a long look, though the starting experience O'Connell gained under Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce last season may give him a slight edge out of the gate. That said, if neither signal-caller pulls away during training camp and the preseason, it could be a while until a decision on the team's Week 1 starter is publicly revealed.
Published: Tue, Jul 30 at 8:41am by Rotowire.com
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Early leader in competition
Coach Antonio Pierce said O'Connell will take the first snap over Gardner Minshew in the Raiders' upcoming quarterback competition, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Pierce praised O'Connell's work so far this offseason, mentioning how he's "changing his body, his work ethic, being here every day, blocking out the outside noise." He did also talk up Minshew and make it clear that Las Vegas considers the starting role up for grabs, saying a quarterback competition is good for motivation across the roster. O'Connell led the Raiders to a 5-5 record as a rookie last season, and this offseason, he'll work to take a step forward and build increased chemistry with…read more
Published: Fri, May 10 at 12:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Remains set for QB battle
O'Connell remains in position to compete with Gardner Minshew for the starting job this offseason, after the Raiders refrained from selecting a rookie quarterback in the 2024 NFL Draft, Mark Anderson of the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Las Vegas was an oft-theorized candidate to add a QB in April's draft, but six signal-callers ultimately went off the board before the team's first-round selection at No. 13 overall, which became playmaking tight end Brock Bowers. The team invested second- and third-round selections in offensive linemen Jackson Powers-Johnson and Delmar Glaze, putting whoever wins the 2024 starting gig in a better position for success. O'Connell completed 213 of 343 pass attempts for 2,218 yards, 12 touchdowns…read more
Published: Mon, Apr 29 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets competition for starting gig
O'Connell (finger) looks set to compete with Gardner Minshew, whom the Raiders plan to ink to a two-year, $25 million deal, for the starting quarterback job, Tashan Reed, Larry Holder and Jeff Howe of The Athletic report.
Analysis: O'Connell put together a solid rookie campaign for a fourth-round pick across 11 regular-season appearances (10 starts), completing 213 of 343 pass attempts for 2,218 yards, 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Minshew is an established veteran and represents real competition for O'Connell, having thrown for 3,305 passing yards, 15 touchdowns and nine INTs across 13 starts with Indianapolis last season, but the 2023 draft pick out of Purdue could get a real chance to compete this offseason.…read more
Published: Tue, Mar 12 at 11:38am by Rotowire.com
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Finishes with win
O'Connell completed 20 of 31 passes for 244 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 27-14 win over the Broncos. He also rushed four times for one yard.
Analysis: O'Connell found Davante Adams from three yards and Jakobi Meyers from 33 yards on his pair of touchdown passes. The fourth-round rookie had a respectable introductory NFL campaign, completing 213 of 343 attempts for 2,218 yards and 12 touchdowns versus seven interceptions while starting in nine of 11 appearances. However, it will be surprising if the Raiders don't add a quarterback this offseason, leaving O'Connell's outlook for the 2024 campaign to be determined.
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 5:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Strong showing in Sunday's loss
O'Connell completed 30 of 47 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Colts.
Analysis: He added three rushing yards on two carries. O'Connell came just short of his first career 300-yard performance and tossed multiple TDs for the second time in three games, a stretch in which he has a 6:0 TD:INT. The Raiders were eliminated from postseason contention with Sunday's loss, but the team has little reason to rest its rookie quarterback for a Week 18 clash with the Broncos.
Published: Sun, Dec 31 at 2:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Little output in Monday's win
O'Connell completed nine of 21 passes for 62 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions and also rushed four times for minus-4 yards during Monday's 20-14 victory at Kansas City.
Analysis: O'Connell didn't outduel Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes by any means, but the former also didn't commit a turnover and kept feeding the ball to running back Zamir White, who earned another spot start for Josh Jacobs (quadriceps/illness) and racked up 22 carries for 145 yards. O'Connell benefitted from his defense scoring two defensive touchdowns on back-to-back Kansas City offensive plays late in the second quarter, and the Raiders offense did just enough to outlast the home team. Monday's…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 25 at 4:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Four-touchdown night in win
O'Connell completed 20 of 34 passes for 248 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions in the Raiders' 63-21 win over the Chargers on Thursday night.
Analysis: O'Connell was thought to be in danger of potentially losing his job coming into Thursday, considering interim head coach Antonio Pierce declined to confirm his starter all week. However, the rookie bought himself another game, to say the least, racking up a new career high in touchdown passes while connecting with Tre Tucker (30 yards), Jakobi Meyers (22 yards), Michael Mayer (11 yards) and Tre Tucker (20 yards) in the first half. O'Connell didn't have to do much in the second half, and he'll…read more
Published: Thu, Dec 14 at 9:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to remain starter Thursday
O'Connell is expected to remain the Raiders' starting quarterback for Thursday's game against the Chargers, even though interim head coach Antonio Pierce has been non-committal on a Week 15 starter, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Some had speculated that the Raiders might turn the starting job back over to veteran Jimmy Garoppolo after O'Connell threw an interception and averaged a season-low 5.3 yards per attempt in the Raiders' 3-0 loss to the Vikings on Sunday, but the rookie fourth-round pick looks like he'll get at least one more opportunity to keep his job. Over his first seven NFL appearances (six starts), O'Connell has completed 63.8 percent of his passes for 6.5 YPA and a 4:7 TD:INT.
Published: Wed, Dec 13 at 3:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Quiet in shutout loss
O'Connell completed 21 of 32 passes for 171 yards with an interception in Sunday's 3-0 loss to the Vikings.
Analysis: In the NFL's lowest-scoring game since 2007, O'Connell struggled to get the Raiders past midfield most of the afternoon, and the team's one trip to the red zone ended on a Hunter Renfrow fumble. It's the first time since Week 9 that the rookie quarterback has failed to throw a touchdown, but O'Connell's 3:5 TD:INT since taking over as Las Vegas' starter illustrates his struggles. The Raiders' passing game gets a better matchup in Week 15 against the Chargers.
Published: Sun, Dec 10 at 7:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Plays well in defeat
O'Connell completed 23 of 33 pass attempts for 248 yards and a touchdown with no turnovers or rushing attempts in Sunday's 31-17 loss to Kansas City.
Analysis: O'Connell cleaned up his play after throwing three interceptions in last week's loss to Miami, completing 69 percent of his passes with no turnovers against the Chiefs on Sunday. While the rookie signal-caller suffered another loss, he appears to be getting more comfortable under center after taking over for Jimmy Garoppolo back in Week 9. O'Connell's low upside and lack of rushing stats keeps him out of the fantasy picture in most leagues, but he has kept Las Vegas' offense respectable through…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 26 at 8:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Impressive yardage total in loss
O'Connell completed 24 of 41 passes for 271 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions and rushed once for three yards in the Raiders' 20-13 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday. He also rushed once for three yards.
Analysis: The trio of turnovers are obviously a big blemish, but O'Connell did help keep the Raiders within striking distance despite his mistakes and posted a career-high passing yardage total in the process. The rookie's final pick of the day came at the Dolphins six-yard line on a deep ball intended for Tre Tucker, snuffing out Las Vegas' last chance to tie. Despite the stumbles, O'Connell is gaining valuable experience and making progress, but he faces a particularly difficult matchup against the…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 19 at 4:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Comes up clutch on SNF
O'Connell completed 16 of 27 pass attempts for 153 yards, one touchdown and one interception while gaining three yards on two rushing attempts in Sunday's 16-12 win over the Jets.
Analysis: O'Connell was hovering around a 50 percent completion rate with an interception thrown before dialing it in and throwing the game-winning touchdown in the fourth quarter of Sunday's win. The rookie signal-caller still finished with a pedestrian fantasy line despite helping earn his team its second win in his second start in place of the benched Jimmy Garoppolo. O'Connell's physical skill set doesn't project to generate big passing numbers in the Raiders' recent run-heavy offense, so the rookie…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 12 at 9:33pm by Rotowire.com
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No mistakes in win Sunday
O'Connell completed 16 of 25 pass attempts for 209 yards with no touchdowns, turnovers or rushing attempts in Sunday's 30-6 win over the Giants.
Analysis: O'Connell started his second game this season after interim head coach Antonio Pierce shook up the QB depth chart and demoted Jimmy Garoppolo this week. The rookie wasn't directly involved in any of Las Vegas' three trips to the end zone, but he didn't cause any turnovers and was accurate when asked to extend drives. O'Connell figures to have earned another start against the Jets next Sunday following this week's crooked score, but he doesn't yet carry enough upside to be considered outside of…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 5 at 7:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Officially named starter
Interim head coach Antonio Pierce confirmed Wednesday that O'Connell has been named the Raiders' starting quarterback going forward, Rachel Gossen of the team's official site reports. "We just feel like he gives us the best chance," Pierce said of O'Connell.
Analysis: The rookie's promotion to the top of the depth chart sends struggling veteran Jimmy Garoppolo into a backup role. In two appearances (one start) this season, O'Connell has accounted from three yards and a touchdown on the ground and has completed 34 of his 52 passing attempts for 313 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Now that he's been installed as Las Vegas' starter, the 2023 fourth-round picks profiles as a lineup option in deeper leagues or in formats that start two quarterbacks or…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 1 at 1:28pm by Rotowire.com
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In line to become starter
The Raiders plan to move forward with O'Connell as their starting quarterback beginning with Sunday's game against the Giants, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Las Vegas appears set to make a change at quarterback after the team announced major staff changes earlier Wednesday, when head coach Josh McDaniels and general manager David Ziegler were fired from their positions. With the 3-5 Raiders sitting on the periphery of the AFC playoff picture, O'Connell, a rookie fourth-round pick out of Purdue, looks as though he'll get an extended evaluation in place of Jimmy Garoppolo, who struggled in Las Vegas' Week 8 loss to the Lions and has thrown a…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 1 at 8:39am by Rotowire.com
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Trending toward Week 9 start
The Raiders are "leaning toward" having O'Connell start Sunday's game against the Giants, a source tells Vincent Bonsignore of the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Analysis: Bonsignore's report was published just over an hour after the Raiders fired head coach Josh McDaniels and general manager David Ziegler earlier Wednesday. Interim head coach Antonio Pierce will likely meet with the media later Wednesday to clarify the Raiders' plans at quarterback moving forward, but with Las Vegas sitting on a 3-5 record and not shaping up as a playoff contender, the team may be inclined to evaluate the rookie O'Connell rather than sticking with struggling veteran Jimmy…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 1 at 8:20am by Rotowire.com
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Tosses TD in garbage time
O'Connell completed 10 of 13 passes for 75 yards and a touchdown with an interception in Sunday's 30-12 loss to the Bears.
Analysis: Brian Hoyer got the start in Week 7 with Jimmy Garoppolo (back) unavailable but produced almost no offense, so O'Connell took over late in the fourth quarter with the Raiders in a 30-6 hole and proceeded to get picked off on his first drive. The rookie QB redeemed himself on Las Vegas' final possession, finding Jakobi Meyers for a nine-yard score. Garoppolo is expected back in Week 8 against the Lions, but O'Connell could return to the No. 2 spot on the depth chart after Hoyer's poor showing.
Published: Sun, Oct 22 at 1:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Likely backing up Hoyer on Sunday
O'Connell is in line to serve as Brian Hoyer's backup this Sunday at Chicago with Jimmy Garoppolo (back) ruled out for the Week 7 contest, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: O'Connell previously got the nod for Garoppolo when the latter missed Week 4 due to a concussion, completing 24 of 39 passes for 238 yards, no touchdowns and one interception, rushing three times for three yards and a TD and fumbling three times (two lost). With Garoppolo now sidelined due to a back injury, Hoyer will get the first chance to step in after leading the Raiders to a 19-17 win against the Patriots this past Sunday. In the end, though, O'Connell is just one play away from seeing his…read more
Published: Fri, Oct 20 at 3:20pm by Rotowire.com
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Inactive Monday
O'Connell is inactive for Monday night's game against the Packers.
Analysis: With Jimmy Garoppolo (concussion) sidelined in Week 4, O'Connell drew the start in the Raiders' 24-17 loss to the Chargers. Now that Garoppolo is back in action, O'Connell will resume a reserve role, while Brian Hoyer is slated to serve as the team's No. 2 QB on Monday.
Published: Mon, Oct 9 at 4:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Key mistakes in debut
O'Connell completed 24 of 39 passes for 238 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 24-17 loss to the Chargers. He added three rushes for three yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: O'Connell drew his first NFL start with Jimmy Garoppolo (concussion) sidelined. As could be expected, he had an uneven performance. Positively, he completed a pair of passes of more than 20 yards, and he also found the end zone for the first time in his career on a quarterback sneak late in the first quarter. However, he also made a lot of mistakes, as he took seven sacks, lost a fumble and also threw an interception from the Chargers' three-yard line on what could have been a game-tying drive…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 8:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to draw first start
O'Connell is expected to start Sunday's matchup against the Chargers with Jimmy Garoppolo (concussion) ruled out, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: In somewhat of a surprise, O'Connell, a rookie fourth-round pick out of Purdue is set to get the starting nod over an established veteran with ample NFL experience in Brian Hoyer, who had been active as Garoppolo's top backup through the first three games of the season. Though he'll be making his regular-season debut Sunday, O'Connell was one of the top-performing quarterbacks in the preseason, as he completed 43 of 62 pass attempts (69.3 percent) for 482 yards, three touchdowns and no…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 1:34am by Rotowire.com
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Serving as emergency QB
O'Connell (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's matchup against the Broncos, but he'll dress and serve as the Raiders' emergency quarterback.
Analysis: A rookie fourth-round pick, O'Connell shined during preseason action, but he's still behind veterans Jimmy Garoppolo and Brian Hoyer on the depth chart. O'Connell doesn't count against the 53-man roster, but he's eligible to play if both Garoppolo and Hoyer are forced out of the contest.
Published: Sun, Sep 10 at 12:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Wraps up excellent preseason
O'Connell completed 17 of 26 passes for 178 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions in Saturday's 31-16 preseason loss to the Cowboys.
Analysis: O'Connell played the first three quarters of the matchup and wrapped up the first preseason of his professional career. Overall, he completed 43 of 62 passes for 482 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions across three games. O'Connell may enter the season as the Raiders' third quarterback, but he should have a chance to pass Brian Hoyer at some point.
Published: Sat, Aug 26 at 9:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Impressive preseason debut
O'Connell completed 15 of 18 pass attempts for 141 yards, one touchdown and no turnovers in Sunday's 34-7 preseason win over San Francisco.
Analysis: O'Connell got the starting nod with the veterans atop Las Vegas' QB depth chart -- Jimmy Garoppolo and Brian Hoyer -- sitting out this exhibition game. The fourth-round selection did not look like a rookie in a tough matchup, albeit against the 49ers' B-squad of defenders. The 25-year-old played four years at Purdue, so he has more seasoning than most rookie quarterbacks. O'Connell should get plenty of run in the Raiders' next preseason tilt against the Rams on Saturday.
Published: Sun, Aug 13 at 8:01pm by Rotowire.com
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