The Las Vegas Raiders have decided to start Aidan O’Connell at quarterback for their upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, replacing Gardner Minshew. This decision was announced by head coach Antonio Pierce on Wednesday.
Minshew, who won the starting role in a close competition during training camp, struggled in his five starts, leading to his benching in two games—the losses to the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos. With the Raiders currently sitting at a 2-3 record, Pierce believes the switch to O’Connell is the best move moving forward, although he did not rule out further changes depending on how things unfold.
Gardner Minshew has had some solid statistical performances this season, completing 70.7% of his passes for 1,014 yards and four touchdowns. However, his overall play has been inconsistent, particularly due to his five interceptions, including a damaging 100-yard pick-six in the loss to Denver. His performance has been reflected in a career-low 41.1 QBR. While Minshew has shown promise at times, his turnovers and inability to maintain momentum contributed to the decision to go with O’Connell as the starter.
Aidan O’Connell, despite initially being disappointed not to be named the starter after training camp, has kept a positive outlook. He has continued to prepare as if he were the starter, focusing on improving each day and taking a steady, day-by-day approach. O’Connell’s limited play so far this season has shown promise, completing 59.4% of his passes for 176 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. His calm demeanor and readiness to step in when needed have helped him remain a key figure for the team.
O’Connell has a history with head coach Antonio Pierce, who elevated him to the starting role last season when he became interim coach. O’Connell impressed by going 5-5 as a starter, throwing for 2,218 yards and 12 touchdowns in his 11 appearances. Pierce has noted a significant development in O’Connell’s leadership this season. The young quarterback has become more vocal and assertive, no longer acting like a rookie. His attitude, work ethic, and willingness to support Minshew while serving as a backup have stood out to the coaching staff.
Teammates, including receiver Jakobi Meyers, have expressed confidence in O’Connell taking over as the starter. Meyers, one of the team’s leading receivers, believes that O’Connell’s consistency and steady play will help the Raiders turn things around. With the team in need of a spark to get back on track, O’Connell’s leadership and approach to the game give hope that he can provide the stability and performance necessary for the Raiders to win and stay positive moving forward.
