Antonio Pierce: Raiders QB Aidan O’Connell needs to become ‘more vocal’ when running the offense
With the NFL Draft looming, discussions persist regarding the possibility of the Raiders opting for a quarterback choice in the initial round or elsewhere.
This speculation remains despite Aidan O’Connell, last year’s starting quarterback, remaining on the team roster. Additionally, the Raiders have secured the services of Gardner Minshew through a two-year contract worth $15 million guaranteed.
Given Minshew’s seasoned background, it seems likely that O’Connell might transition into a backup role for the upcoming season, especially if Las Vegas decides to draft a new quarterback. However, O’Connell, who commenced as a rookie last season, still retains an opportunity to vie for the starting position.
Antonio Pierce, the Raiders coach, outlined what O’Connell needs to do to reclaim his starting spot during a gathering with reporters at the 2024 NFL Annual Meeting.
Pierce emphasized the importance of O’Connell demonstrating skills exhibited towards the end of the previous season: protecting the ball, managing the game, and putting points on the scoreboard. Furthermore, Pierce expressed a desire for O’Connell to enhance his vocal presence on the field, albeit acknowledging that O’Connell might not evolve into a mobile runner, which is acceptable. Pierce commended O’Connell for his offseason dedication, staying in Las Vegas and focusing on improving.
Pierce concluded his remarks on O’Connell by emphasizing the necessity for the young quarterback to communicate assertively with his teammates when required.
The Raiders’ new culture encourages players and coaches to be authentic. However, O’Connell’s naturally reserved demeanor may not suffice, particularly in terms of rallying teammates, as Pierce hinted.
Pierce demonstrated significant confidence in O’Connell last season by elevating him to the starting position when he took over as interim coach. O’Connell responded with a 5-4 record under Pierce’s leadership, showcasing both strengths and weaknesses, such as being held scoreless against the Vikings but rebounding with an impressive four-touchdown performance against the Chargers the following week.
As O’Connell continues to develop as a player, with Pierce assuming a permanent coaching role, working alongside outspoken figures like defensive end Maxx Crosby at the Raiders’ practice facility this offseason could facilitate his transition to a more vocal leadership role by the start of training camp.
