Aidan O’Connell practices fully, on pace to play Friday at Kansas City

Quarterback is trying to return from broken thumb

The Las Vegas Raiders were hoping Aidan O’Connell would be ready to play Friday at the Kansas City Chiefs.

Now, the Raiders need O’Connell to be ready.

Monday morning, Las Vegas coach Antonio Pierce confirmed to reporters that Gardner Minshew is out for the season with a broken collarbone he suffered late in a 29-19 loss to the Denver Broncos on Sunday.

Pierce said Monday that O’Connell will participate in a walk-through practice Tuesday as the Raiders prepare to face the Chiefs on a short week. O’Connell has missed the past four games with a broken thumb.

Pierce said O’Connell’s availability Friday will be depends on what the team’s medical staff says. Pierce indicated, though, if O’Connell can grip the ball well he has a chance to play at Kansas City.

Tuesday, O’Connell was a full participant in a walk-through practice and he told reporters he is hopeful of playing Friday. Meanwhile, cornerbacks Jakorian Bennett and Nate Hobbs and running back Zamir White all remained out. Running back Alexander Mattison was limited after missing the Denver game.

If O’Connell can’t play, the Raiders will likely start Desmond Ridder, who finished Sunday’s game. The Raiders could promote Carter Bradley from the practice squad.

There is also Daniel Jones. The former New York Giants starter is expected to clear waivers Monday and become a free agent. Sunday morning, NFL Media reported the Raiders are expected to pursue Jones and perhaps give him a chance to audition to be a bridge starter for 2025 down the stretch this season. However, other reports indicated he wants to sign with a contender.

Pierce wouldn’t address Jones or any other free agents, saying that’s the job of general manager Tom Telesco.