Raiders Lose Quarterback O’Connell to Wrist Injury

The Las Vegas Raiders faced a setback as quarterback Aidan O’Connell sustained a wrist injury during their preseason finale against the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday.

O’Connell was slated to serve as the backup to veteran Geno Smith, who joined the Raiders from the Seattle Seahawks this offseason, marking a reunion with head coach Pete Carroll.

He left the game in the second quarter after completing three of four passes for 36 yards. Coach Carroll confirmed the injury, saying, “He broke his wrist – he’s hurt – that’s going to take a while. That’s a huge blow to us.”

O’Connell was selected in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft from Purdue and has made 17 starts in 20 games for the Raiders. The team has had a turbulent time at quarterback due to ongoing injuries and player departures.

Last year, Derek Carr began as the starting quarterback but left the team, signing with the New Orleans Saints. The Raiders see a crowded quarterback field with O’Connell, Jimmy Garoppolo, Brian Hoyer, Gardner Minshew, and Desmond Ridder vying for spots after Carr’s exit.

Carroll utilized Smith and Cammy Miller during the preseason match against the Cardinals, stating that it’s still early to determine if Miller will secure the QB2 position heading into the 2025 season.

O’Connell’s recovery time is anticipated to be around 6-8 weeks. It leaves the Raiders in a tight spot as they prepare for the upcoming season.