Raiders Aidan O'Connell Sidelined by Injury

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O'Connell is dealing with a bone bruise in his left knee, which has caused him to miss practice on both Thursday and Friday. O'Connell sustained the injury during a recent loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but avoided serious harm, expressing hope to start against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night. Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce has not ruled him out yet, but O'Connell's consecutive missed practices raise concerns about his availability. Meanwhile, star defensive end Maxx Crosby also missed practice due to an ankle injury, potentially impacting the team's defensive strength. O'Connell has had a challenging season, starting four games and recording 899 passing yards with four touchdowns and three interceptions. If he cannot play, former Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder is expected to take the lead for the Raiders.