The ball is literally in Aidan O’Connell’s hands.
It is up to the Las Vegas Raiders’ second-year quarterback to keep it there.
Speaking prior to the Raiders’ rookie minicamp, coach Antonio Pierce told reporters that O’Connell has “earned” the right to take the first snaps at the team’s OTAs and minicamps in the battle with newly signed free-agent Gardner Minshew.
"Aidan's earned the right to go out there and take the first snap." - #Raiders coach Antonio Pierce, on QB competition between returner Aidan O'Connell and free-agent vet Gardner Minshew.
— Paul Gutierrez (@PGutierrezESPN) May 10, 2024
Pierce’s decision is based on O’Connell being the Raiders’ starter for 10 games last season.