The Las Vegas Raiders (2-3) find themselves in a troubling situation as their season appears to be slipping away.

Head coach Antonio Pierce revealed on Wednesday that Aidan O’Connell will return as the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

“This was not a decision made by the team, but rather my choice. I believe this is what’s best for our offense moving forward,” Pierce explained.

O’Connell lost the starting QB role to Gardner Minshew during the offseason. However, Minshew’s inconsistent performance in the first five games of the season led to his replacement. O’Connell stepped in during the Raiders’ 34-18 defeat to the Denver Broncos last Sunday, where Minshew completed 12 of 17 passes for 137 yards, one touchdown, and two critical interceptions.

“It is what it is. I’m here to support the team in any way I can. I’ll continue to be there for Aidan, sharing insights and maintaining a positive attitude on the sideline,” Minshew stated following his benching. “Ultimately, I will contribute to the team however possible, regardless of my position.”

Last season, O’Connell started 10 games in his rookie year after moving up from being a backup. He achieved 2,394 passing yards, with 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions, finishing with a 5-5 record as a starter. The Raiders drafted him in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

“He no longer presents himself as a rookie. He carries himself with confidence,” Pierce noted. “I appreciate his attitude, especially when we named Gardner the starter—he said, ‘Alright, I’m going to be the best scout team quarterback.’ He brought energy every day and consistently gave us a great look.”

Pierce’s quarterback change comes amid ongoing trade rumors surrounding Davante Adams. The star receiver’s future with the Raiders is uncertain after he requested a trade.

Adams, who signed a lucrative five-year, $141.25 million contract with the Raiders in 2022 after joining from Green Bay, has been the team’s standout offensive player for the last two seasons, leading them in receptions and receiving yards.

With trade rumors swirling around Adams and the uncertainty at quarterback, the Raiders’ 2024 season faces serious challenges. Their situation is further complicated by the Kansas City Chiefs, who are currently undefeated at 5-0 and look set to secure their ninth consecutive AFC West title.

“We just need to collectively improve our performance on the field,” stated Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby. “There are fundamental things we haven’t executed well enough, starting with myself. As leaders, we have to find ways to improve daily.”