The Las Vegas Raiders lost their starting quarterback, Aidan O’Connell, in Week 7 against the Los Angeles Rams due to a thumb injury. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, O’Connell is expected to miss significant time.
“Raiders QB Aidan O’Connell is heading to Injured Reserve with a fractured thumb, sources tell me and Mike Garafolo following tests,” Rapoport tweeted. “O’Connell, who had resumed starting before his injury, is out 4-6 weeks. He has a chance to return this season.”
With O’Connell sidelined, Gardner Minshew, who began the season as the starter before losing the job to O’Connell, will now step back into the starting quarterback role for the Raiders.
Gardner Minshew back in the fold for Raiders after latest injury
Gardner Minshew will be regaining his starting quarterback role for the Las Vegas Raiders after Aidan O’Connell’s thumb injury sidelined him. Minshew, who has experience playing with the first team, is expected to help the transition go smoothly. Earlier in the season, Minshew was benched after a rough performance against the Denver Broncos, where he threw for just 137 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.
Despite losing his starting position, Minshew handled the situation professionally, stating that he was focused on supporting O’Connell. “It is what it is,” Minshew said. “I’ll try to help the team however I can, stay in Aidan’s ear, tell him things I’ve been seeing, and maintain a positive presence on the sideline.”
Minshew emphasized his commitment to contributing to the team, regardless of his role. “At the end of the day, no matter what my role is on the team, I’m going to try and help the team any way I can.”
With the Raiders also dealing with the recent departure of star wide receiver Davante Adams, the team has been forced to make adjustments due to injuries and roster changes. Now, they’ll face the challenge of switching quarterbacks once again, and it will be a tough test in Week 8 when they go up against the Kansas City Chiefs.
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