The Raiders’ quarterback situation and Aidan O’Connell’s latest.
A number of teams are researching quarterbacks in preparation for the April draft, including the Raiders. Although it would not be shocking to add a passer at this stage, current starter Aidan O’Connell is still in the running to start for the squad in Week 1.
You are aware that a team cannot have two quarterbacks on its roster, right? Regarding the team’s depth chart, head coach Antonio Pierce stated, “So, we know we have to add some” (via NFL.com). “The draft is the subsequent wave. Thus, we’ll see.
Prior to the start of free agency, Pierce stated that O’Connell would have the opportunity to compete for the starting job and that the Raiders will sign an experienced quarterback to replace Jimmy Garoppolo. Following Anthony Richardson’s season-ending injury, Gardner Minshew assumed the starting position for the Colts. He was signed to a two-year, $25MM contract, meaning he will probably be considered for the QB1 position.
Pick No. 13 is presently held by Vegas, which is far outside the range of the best passers in the 2024 class. However, the team has been linked to a bold move up the board, and Jayden Daniels is scheduled for a “30 visit.” Michael Penix Jr. is likewise in this category, and further choices might become available based on when the Raiders make their initial pick. O’Connell would have a chance to hold onto the starting job even with a high draft pick, but consistency at the position could only be achieved with sustained investment.
Pierce continued, “Look, at the end of the day, Aidan O’Connell played his ass off.” He performed an amazing job for us. You speak about a young person who possesses the mental toughness necessary to compete in the National Football League. Everything that occurs and everything we do must pass through Aidan O’Connell. being truthful with you since he has earned the right to do so.
During the previous season, the 2023 fourth-round pick started ten games, including all nine in the final stretch. Though only one of those interceptions came in the final six games of the season, O’Connell threw seven interceptions in all. Expanding on his enhanced ball control will undoubtedly enhance the Purdue product’s prospects of maintaining the position he held till the end of the previous campaign. The Raiders in 2024 will have a lot of new faces in the front office, on the field, and in the stands. It will be intriguing to watch how the team’s QB depth chart develops over the course of the summer.