### Raiders Activate Aidan O'Connell from Injured Reserve Amid Quarterback Struggles The Las Vegas Raiders have made a significant move by activating backup quarterback Aidan O'Connell from injured reserve, where he had been sidelined since late August due to a fractured wrist. This decision comes as the team grapples with a disappointing 2-8 record, largely attributed to the struggles of starting quarterback Geno Smith, who has thrown 12 touchdowns against 13 interceptions this season. O'Connell, a fourth-round pick from Purdue in 2023, has shown promise in his previous two seasons, throwing for 3,830 yards with 20 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. His activation suggests he may take over the No. 2 quarterback role, surpassing Kenny Pickett, who has had limited playing time this season. The Raiders are set to face the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, and O'Connell's return could provide a much-needed boost to the team's quarterback depth [https://apnews.com/article/oconnell-raiders-injured-reserve-browns-2e468416ac48dcbf3766fe2efe1566c6][https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/raiders_activate_qb_aidan_oconnell_wrist_from_ir/s1_17049_43093261]. ### Breakdown of the Situation 1. **Injury Background**: - Aidan O'Connell fractured his right wrist during the preseason finale on August 23, leading to his placement on injured reserve shortly after [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/raiders_activate_qb_aidan_oconnell_from_ir/s1_14819_43092290]. 2. **Current Quarterback Performance**: - Geno Smith has struggled this season, with a completion rate of 66.3% and an average of 208.2 yards per game, contributing to the team's poor record [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/raiders_activate_qb_aidan_oconnell_from_ir/s1_17049_43093261]. 3. **Depth Chart Changes**: - O'Connell's activation indicates he has surpassed Kenny Pickett on the depth chart, who has only attempted three passes this season [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/raiders_activate_qb_aidan_oconnell_from_ir/s1_14819_43092290]. 4. **Upcoming Game**: - The Raiders are preparing to host the Cleveland Browns, and O'Connell's return could be pivotal for the team's performance [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/raiders_activate_qb_aidan_oconnell_from_ir/s1_17049_43093261]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **O'Connell's Career Stats**: - **Games Played**: 20 - **Total Yards**: 3,830 - **Touchdowns**: 20 - **Interceptions**: 11 - **Best Season (2023)**: 2,218 yards, 12 touchdowns, 7 interceptions [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/raiders_activate_qb_aidan_oconnell_from_ir/s1_14819_43092290][https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/raiders_announce_qb_update_on_wednesday/s1_17615_43093360]. - **Geno Smith's Performance**: - **Completion Rate**: 66.3% - **Average Yards per Game**: 208.2 - **Touchdowns**: 12 - **Interceptions**: 13 [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/raiders_activate_qb_aidan_oconnell_from_ir/s1_17049_43093261]. ### Conclusion and Implications **The activation of Aidan O'Connell from injured reserve is a strategic move by the Raiders as they seek to improve their quarterback situation amid Geno Smith's struggles.** 1. **O'Connell's Return**: His activation could provide a fresh option for the Raiders, who are in dire need of a turnaround. 2. **Depth Chart Dynamics**: O'Connell's leap over Pickett indicates the coaching staff's confidence in his abilities. 3. **Upcoming Challenge**: The Raiders face a critical game against the Browns, where O'Connell's presence could be crucial for the team's performance. This situation will be closely monitored as the Raiders aim to salvage their season [https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/raiders/raiders-geno-smith-ashton-jeanty-speak-to-the-media-watch-live-3583882][https://www.profootballrumors.com/2025/11/raiders-activate-qb-aidan-oconnell-from-ir].