Raiders Quarterback Aidan O’Connell Misses Game Following Father's Death

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell announced on Thursday evening that he would miss an upcoming game due to the death of his father, Jim.

O’Connell shared the news on Instagram, expressing his profound sadness and highlighting his father's significant impact on his life and the lives of others. "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," O'Connell wrote. "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."

The team had previously announced O’Connell's absence from the game against the Los Angeles Chargers for personal reasons.

O’Connell expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support his family has received during this difficult time. "We are incredibly thankful for the prayers, kindness, and support that have surrounded our family during this difficult time," he stated. "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."

He concluded his message with a quote from the Heidelberg Catechism and a farewell to his father: "My only comfort in life and death is that I am not my own, but belong—body and soul, in life and in death—to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ.’ Rest in peace, Dad. We love you and will miss you more than words can say."

O'Connell, a former Purdue standout, is in his third NFL season, all with the Raiders. He currently serves as the emergency quarterback on the team's depth chart behind Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza.