Las Vegas starting quarterback missed Week 15
Tuesday, Las Vegas Raiders coach Antonio Pierce told reporters that starting quarterback Aidan O’Connell is “trending upward” toward playing Sunday against the 3-11 Jacksonville Jaguars at Allegiant Stadium (kickoff is set for 1:25 p.m. PT) for the 2-12 Raiders.
That upward trend continued Wednesday when O’Connell was on the practice field as the Raiders started their on-field preparations for the game. It was O’Connell’s first practice since he suffered a bone bruise at Tampa Bay 10 days ago.
Aidan O’Connell is back at practice for the first time since injuring knee in Tampa 10 days ago. pic.twitter.com/5yasK8NIBq
— Kevin Bolinger (@KevinFOX5Vegas) December 18, 2024
It’s not really a surprise that O’Connell appears headed toward playing. He worked out prior to the 15-9 defeat to the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night and was the Raiders’ emergency quarterback, indicating he was close to being ready. Backup Desmond Ridder played in the game.
Now, barring a setback, O’Connell is on pace to be back under center as the Raiders prepare for the final three games of the season.
O’Connell practiced fully, which is a great sign. Guard Jordan Meredith (ankle) was the only Las Vegas player on the 53-man roster not to practice Wednesday.
#Raiders QB Aidan O’Connell (knee) was a FULL participant at practice today. pic.twitter.com/1F44XF7bGC
— Paul Gutierrez (@PGutierrezESPN) December 18, 2024
