Raiders’ Aidan O’Connell announces death of his father, leaning on faith in time of sorrow
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell was listed as inactive for Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints after he announced the death of his father earlier in the week.
O’Connell posted a photo of himself with his mother and father on Instagram before he deactivated his social media account altogether.
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Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell is under center against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nev., on Aug. 27, 2026. (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
“It is with immense sadness that I share the passing of my Dad, Jim,” he 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 said he was echoing the Heidelberg Catechism in his time of sorrow.
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell stands on the sideline during a game against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium on Aug. 20, 2026. (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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“’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,’” he wrote.
“Rest in peace, Dad. We love you and will miss you more than words can say.”
O’Connell has been with the Raiders since the team selected him in the fourth round of the 2023 draft. He has played in 21 games, racking up 3,932 yards and 20 touchdown passes in that span.
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell carries the ball against the Kansas City Chiefs in the second half at Allegiant Stadium on Jan. 4, 2026, in Paradise, Nev. (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
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He’s been in the QB3 spot to start the season since the team signed Kirk Cousins and drafted Fernando Mendoza No. 1 overall in the offseason.
