As the Las Vegas Raiders enter the post-Josh McDaniels era, they’ll do so with a new starting quarterback.
Shortly after being named the Raiders’ interim head coach, Antonio Pierce announced that rookie Aidan O’Connell will serve as Las Vegas’ starting quarterback. The move marks the benching of veteran Jimmy Garoppolo, who the Raiders signed to a three-year, $72.75 million contract ahead of the 2023 season.
“We just feel like he gives us the best chance,” Pierce told reporters of the decision to start O’Connell, according to Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network.
“Very supportive. Guys are rallying behind him, excited for him to get his opportunity,” added interim general manager Champ Kelly, who is replacing Dave Ziegler, who was also fired by the Raiders on Tuesday.
The decision to bench Garoppolo comes after the former San Francisco 49ers signal-caller completed 65.5 percent of his passes for 1,205 yards, seven touchdowns and an NFL-high nine interceptions in six games. Following its loss to the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football, Las Vegas enters its Week 9 matchup against the New York Giants laying claim to a 3-5 record.
As for O’Connell, the Raiders selected the Purdue product in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Appearing in two games (one start), the 25-year-old rookie has completed 65.4 percent of his passes for 313 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.