After a period of quarterback instability, the Las Vegas Raiders have solidified their plans under center by committing to Geno Smith on a two-year deal. Over the past two seasons, Aidan O’Connell has made 17 starts for the team, despite never being the initial Week 1 starter. With Smith now the clear No. 1, O’Connell’s future role is less certain.
There were even reports, most notably from The Athletic, that the Raiders considered trading O’Connell during the draft. However, according to Vincent Bonsignore of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, releasing him is not currently on the table.
In a recent mailbag, Bonsignore wrote, “It would be a surprise if the quarterback wasn’t on the roster,” emphasizing that O’Connell remains part of the team’s plans. Smith’s reunion with former Seahawks coach Pete Carroll and the Raiders’ decision to extend his contract confirm he’s the starter moving forward.
Still, in today’s NFL, experienced backup quarterbacks are more valuable than ever. O’Connell’s familiarity with the team and his starting experience offer real benefits behind Smith.
Raiders’ Draft Strategy May Benefit O’Connell
Despite speculation that Las Vegas would pursue a top QB prospect in the draft, they passed on several, including Shedeur Sanders, and didn’t select a quarterback until the sixth round, when they picked North Dakota State’s Cam Miller. Given Miller’s limited experience against top-tier competition, Bonsignore believes O’Connell is the clear favorite to back up Smith in 2025.
“The Raiders also waited until the sixth round of the NFL draft to select a quarterback — North Dakota State’s Cam Miller — which likely means O’Connell will be the club’s No. 2 quarterback behind Smith,” he noted.
O’Connell seems well-suited for that role, having proven capable in both spot starts and mid-game relief. His experience and reliability give the Raiders a steady hand behind their new starter.
Could Cam Miller Challenge for the Backup Role?
While O’Connell is expected to be the backup, that position isn’t guaranteed. If Miller impresses in training camp, it could shake up the depth chart. Still, Bonsignore sees that scenario as unlikely.
“As a backup, a team could do far worse than O’Connell, who is still on his rookie contract and represents excellent value for his role,” he wrote. While Miller could theoretically outplay him, the odds aren’t high.
Unless Miller vastly outperforms expectations, O’Connell’s job appears safe. He remains a quality backup option and a cost-effective asset on a rookie deal something the Raiders aren’t likely to part with anytime soon.
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