Raiders Quarterback Aidan O'Connell Deactivates Social Media After Father's Death
O'Connell shared a heartfelt tribute to his father, Jim, expressing his faith and grief before stepping away from social platforms.
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell was listed as inactive for Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints following the announcement of his father’s death earlier in the week. O’Connell shared a poignant message on Instagram detailing his grief and reliance on faith before deactivating his social media accounts.
“It is with immense sadness that I share the passing of my Dad, Jim,” O’Connell wrote on Friday. “My Dad was a gift to me and to so many others. All who were fortunate enough to know him can testify to the great man he was. He impacted countless lives, and those who knew him were better for it.
“My family and I are heartbroken by this loss, and we are relying on the Lord for comfort and peace. We are incredibly thankful for the prayers, kindness, and support that have surrounded our family during this difficult time. We ask for continued prayers as we grieve, remember, and honor my Dad’s life and the impact he had. Saying goodbye to him has been incredibly difficult for all of us. But we are holding tightly to the promises of Scripture and trusting that Dad is at peace, finally and forever.”
O’Connell, who was selected by the Raiders in the fourth round of the 2023 draft, has played in 21 games for the team, accumulating 3,932 yards and 20 touchdown passes. He has been in the quarterback 3 spot this season, following the team signing Kirk Cousins and drafting Fernando Mendoza in the offseason.