Raiders QB Aidan O'Connell Injured in First Quarter vs Rams

In Inglewood, California, on October 20, 2024, Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O'Connell suffered a hand injury during the first quarter of a game against the Los Angeles Rams. The injury occurred when O'Connell's hand struck the hand of Rams safety Kam Curl while attempting to throw a long pass. Following the incident, O'Connell was penalized for intentional grounding and subsequently left the field to go to the locker room, shortly after returning to the bench. Prior to his injury, O'Connell had completed 6 of 10 passes for 52 yards during the Raiders' first two offensive series. Gardner Minshew replaced him for the third series; Minshew had previously started the season as the Raiders' quarterback before losing the position to O'Connell. This situation illustrates the ongoing quarterback dynamics within the Raiders team as injuries have added pressure on their offensive strategy. This season, O'Connell has accumulated significant passing stats, including 403 yards, alongside two touchdowns and two interceptions in parts of three games. Last season, he held the role of starting quarterback during the second half of the season as a rookie. The temporary loss of O'Connell due to the injury raises questions about the Raiders' performance and strategies moving forward, especially as they navigate their season with a new quarterback once again at the helm.