Aidan O’Connell (Raiders) NFL Draft Preview
Post-Draft Fantasy Outlook
Aidan O’Connell was drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL draft. O’Connell is currently third on the Raiders’ depth chart. With the Raiders signing Jimmy Garoppolo in the offseason, it’s clear that O’Connell won’t be starting anytime soon.
Even in dynasty formats, O’Connell’s outlook is limited to that of a career backup. While he may develop into a reliable backup quarterback, he is unlikely to ever become a consistent fantasy starter. In deeper dynasty leagues, he may be worth a late-round flier for those who are willing to take a long-term approach.
Aidan O’Connell NFL Draft Preview
Aidan O’Connell began his college career as a walk-on at Purdue and left as a legitimate NFL prospect. O’Connell comes into the draft as the most experienced quarterback, in terms of snaps, and ran a pro-style offense in college, so he might need less time to adjust at the pro level than some of his peers.
O’Connell was one of the most prolific passers in college last season, throwing the ball almost 42 times a game and completing 64% of his passes for 3,490 yards and 22 touchdowns. He also threw 13 interceptions in 12 games. This followed his excellent junior season where he threw for 3,712 yards and 28 touchdowns in 59 fewer attempts than in his senior year.
In terms of his draft position, O’Connell is projected to go in the 3rd round and begin his career as a backup.
From walk-on in West Lafayette to the NFL Combine.
Aidan O’Connell. pic.twitter.com/nqawNULbns
— Barstool Indy (@barstoolindy) March 5, 2023
Measurables
- 6’3 213 lbs
- Arm Length 32.25″
- Hand Size 9.75″
Positives
O’Connell is the most experienced quarterback in this year’s draft class, having played in 27 games for Purdue, including 1,401 dropbacks, well more than any other quarterback in the draft.
O’Connell’s experience in a pro-style system and his prototypical build make him an attractive prospect for NFL teams.
One thing that stands out about O’Connell is his work ethic and leadership. He started his career as a walk-on who was 8th on the QB depth chart to become the starter.
One of O’Connell’s strengths is his ability to work the middle of the field well. He excels at throwing intermediate routes, and his anticipatory passing allows him to hit receivers in stride.
He has a classic pocket passer style, and his elusiveness in the pocket allows him to avoid sacks.
Negatives
O’Connell’s average arm strength limits his ability to make deep throws with accuracy. He struggles with accuracy issues when throwing downfield. He has a tendency to throw into coverage and make turnover-worthy throws. He seemed to regress from his junior year to his senior year, and his decision-making may be a factor in that regression.
He struggles with reading defenses pre-snap and often fails to see blitzes coming. His lack of mobility is also a concern. Most teams want quarterbacks who can extend plays with their legs.
Aidan O’Connell went full Carson Wentz. You never go full Carson Wentz.
— Barstool Indy (@barstoolindy) September 17, 2022
Grade – C+
Aidan O’Connell has a lot of potential, but also some significant weaknesses. His experience in a pro-style system and his prototypical build are intriguing. However, his accuracy issues, decision-making, and lack of mobility could limit his potential.
Despite these limitations, O’Connell has the potential to be a solid backup quarterback in the NFL. He has the work ethic, leadership, and experience to make a contribution to a team. While he may not be a starter right away, he could develop into a reliable backup and possibly even a starter if given the opportunity.
Doug Burrell finished 2022 as Fantasy Nerd’s Most Accurate Expert in NFL Picks and Tallysight’s #1 ranked expert Against the Spread Expert out of 200+ experts. He is a veteran, a runner and an avid fantasy sports enthusiast since 1999. You can reach him on Twitter @dougwburrell.
