O'Connell began 2024 in a training camp competition with in-season newcomer Gardner Minshew as the starter, losing out to the veteran almost by default as neither looked particularly impressive during their preseason performances. Minshew's run as a starter lasted just five weeks, ending when Antonio Pierce saw enough of the veteran's turnover tendencies and replaced him with O'Connell during Las Vegas' Week 5 loss to Denver.

O'Connell was named the Week 6 starter, but things weren't any easier for him. He completed 27 of 40 passes for 227 yards, a touchdown and an interception in a 32-13 loss to Pittsburgh in Week 6, then attempted 10 passes on Sunday before suffering the thumb injury that will keep him out for at least a month becomes.

O'Connell's promotion marked the second time in two NFL seasons that Pierce chose him over a veteran under center. The coach named O'Connell the Raiders' starter over Jimmy Garoppolo for the remainder of the season after replacing the fired Josh McDaniels midway through the 2023 season.

Unlike O'Connell's rookie season, the Raiders' problems extend beyond the quarterback. They will need Minshew to produce in O'Connell's absence.