Image Source: Fox News
Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell is taking time away from football as he mourns the death of his father, Jim. The Las Vegas quarterback was listed as inactive for Sunday’s Week 3 game against the New Orleans Saints after sharing the news with fans earlier in the week.
O’Connell announced his father’s death in an emotional Instagram post Friday. He later deactivated his social media account, according to Fox News. The Raiders quarterback shared a photograph of himself with both of his parents before stepping away from the platform.
Raiders Quarterback Aidan O’Connell Leans on Faith
In his message, O’Connell described his father as a major influence and a beloved figure whose impact reached far beyond the family. He wrote that Jim was “a gift” to him and to many others, adding that those who knew him were better for having him in their lives.
“My family and I are heartbroken by this loss, and we are relying on the Lord for comfort and peace,” O’Connell wrote.
The quarterback also thanked people for their prayers, kindness and support during what he called an extremely difficult period. He said his family was holding tightly to the promises of Scripture while grieving and honoring his father’s life.
O’Connell specifically referenced the Heidelberg Catechism, a historic Christian statement of faith, as he explained the comfort he was seeking.
“My only comfort in life and death is that I am not my own, but belong—body and soul, in life and in death—to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ,” he wrote.
He concluded the post with a simple farewell: “Rest in peace, Dad. We love you and will miss you more than words can say.”
Aidan O’Connell’s Role With the Las Vegas Raiders
O’Connell joined the Raiders after the team selected him in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. During his professional career, he has appeared in 21 games and recorded 3,932 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes.
Although he has started games for Las Vegas in previous seasons, O’Connell opened the 2026 campaign in the team’s quarterback depth chart behind veteran Kirk Cousins and rookie Fernando Mendoza. The Raiders signed Cousins and selected Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick during the offseason.
- Aidan O’Connell was drafted by the Raiders in 2023.
- He has appeared in 21 NFL games.
- His career totals include 3,932 passing yards.
- He has thrown 20 touchdown passes.
- He entered the 2026 season listed behind Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza.
Because of his position on the depth chart, O’Connell’s absence did not immediately create the same on-field uncertainty it might have in earlier seasons. Still, his inactive status underscored the personal nature of the situation and the importance of allowing him time with his family.
Raiders Rally Around O’Connell During Difficult Week
Professional football often demands intense focus, travel and preparation, but O’Connell’s decision to step away reflects the realities players face away from the field. Losing a parent is a deeply personal event, and the quarterback made clear that his family’s needs came first.
The Raiders entered their Week 3 matchup with O’Connell unavailable, while the organization continued its season with its other quarterbacks. His absence also offered a reminder of the close attention placed on NFL roster decisions, even when those decisions are driven by circumstances far more important than the game itself.
For O’Connell, the coming weeks will likely involve both football responsibilities and continued mourning. His public message showed a player leaning on faith, family and the support of those around him as he processes the loss.
The Raiders quarterback’s statement also resonated with supporters because it focused less on football and more on gratitude, memory and faith. O’Connell credited his father’s influence and asked for continued prayers as the family said goodbye.
What Comes Next for the Raiders
O’Connell’s playing status will remain a secondary storyline compared with his family’s loss. The Raiders will determine his return based on his personal circumstances and readiness, rather than rushing him back for football reasons.
In the meantime, Las Vegas has other quarterback options available, including Cousins and Mendoza. The team’s immediate challenge is maintaining its Week 3 preparation while supporting a teammate during an extraordinarily painful time.
The most important update is not about statistics or depth charts. It is that O’Connell and his family are grieving, and the football community is giving them space while offering condolences and support.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Raiders and Aidan O’Connell
Why was Aidan O’Connell inactive for the Raiders?
O’Connell was listed as inactive for the Raiders’ Week 3 game against the New Orleans Saints after announcing the death of his father, Jim.
What did Aidan O’Connell say about his father?
O’Connell called his father a gift and said his family was relying on the Lord for comfort, peace and strength during the grieving process.
How long has O’Connell been with the Raiders?
The Raiders selected O’Connell in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He has appeared in 21 NFL games.
What are Aidan O’Connell’s career statistics?
O’Connell has recorded 3,932 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes during his NFL career.
Who is ahead of O’Connell on the Raiders’ quarterback depth chart?
O’Connell entered the 2026 season behind veteran Kirk Cousins and rookie Fernando Mendoza.
