NFL Futures: O’Connell’s Deals Remains Uncertain

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Raiders Face Quarterback Uncertainty as Aidan O’Connell Deals with Injury

The Las Vegas Raiders are dealing with another twist in their quarterback carousel after Aidan O’Connell suffered a bone bruise in his left knee during Sunday’s loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  Despite initial fears of a severe injury, O’Connell plans to attempt playing in the Raiders’ Week 15 Monday night matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. The situation intrigues NFL Futures bettors, especially with the Raiders’ potential position to secure the top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

O’Connell’s Injury and Performance

O’Connell sustained the injury after being hit by Bucs defensive lineman Calijah Kancey following a pass attempt. The medical staff initially placed his leg in an air cast before carting him off the field, suggesting a more serious outcome. However, tests revealed only a bone bruise, allowing O’Connell to hope for a return next week.

Before exiting the game, O’Connell completed 11-of-19 passes for 104 yards and an interception. His replacement, Desmond Ridder, stepped in and went 12-of-18 for 101 yards, providing a steady but unspectacular performance.

Ridder’s Opportunity to Start

If O’Connell cannot play, head coach Antonio Pierce has confirmed that Ridder will start against the Falcons. Ridder, who has appeared in four games this season, has completed 28-of-44 passes for 239 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. However, ball security has been an issue, as he has fumbled three times.

Ridder’s potential start comes with an added narrative: facing his former team. Drafted by the Falcons in the third round in 2022, Ridder started 17 games for Atlanta before being traded to the Arizona Cardinals and later signed by the Raiders. This would mark Ridder’s first start in nearly a year, giving him a chance to prove he still belongs in the NFL.

“I’m excited and ready to go,” Ridder said after Sunday’s game. “This is a huge stage and a great opportunity for us to put together a complete game and get a win.”

Raiders’ Ongoing Quarterback Struggles

The Raiders’ quarterback position has been a revolving door this season due to injuries and inconsistency. O’Connell, a fourth-round pick in 2023, has thrown for 899 yards with four touchdowns and three interceptions in his rookie campaign. 

Earlier in the season, he missed four games with a broken thumb after replacing Gardner Minshew, who suffered a season-ending collarbone injury.

Ridder would become the Raiders’ third starting quarterback this season. Interim offensive coordinator Scott Turner, who took over play-calling duties in Week 10, has had to constantly adjust the team’s offensive strategy.

“Less is more,” Pierce said of the team’s approach to the quarterback position. “We need to tailor the scheme to the quarterback’s strengths and simplify things to help them execute at a high level.”

Eyeing the Future

The Raiders’ quarterback uncertainty has further highlighted their need to address the position long-term. Following Week 14’s results, Las Vegas holds a 35 percent chance of securing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This would provide a golden opportunity to draft a franchise quarterback and address their most significant need.

While the immediate focus remains on whether O’Connell can recover for Week 15 or if Ridder can step up, the Raiders are likely already planning for the offseason. With a high probability of landing a top draft pick, Las Vegas could be on the cusp of a major shakeup at the quarterback position.