Chiefs Lands Raiders Free Agent Quarterback for Depth Behind Patrick Mahomes

Kansas City, MO – May 1, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs fortified their quarterback room Thursday, signing Las Vegas Raiders free agent Aidan O’Connell to a one-year, $2 million deal, sources told ESPN. The move bolsters depth behind superstar Patrick Mahomes, ensuring stability after a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

O’Connell, 26, started four games for the Raiders in 2024, completing 61.8% of his passes for 1,248 yards, six touchdowns, and four interceptions (NFL.com). His 10 starts in 2023 showcased poise under pressure, making him a shrewd addition to Kansas City’s roster. “Aidan’s a fighter,” GM Brett Veach told reporters, eyeing the 2023 fourth-round pick’s experience as a hedge against injuries.

The Chiefs, who drafted Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith, rely on Mahomes’ 4,803 passing yards in 2024 (‽web:12). Carson Wentz, the current QB2, faces free agency in 2026, while Chris Oladokun’s limited snaps leave the QB3 role open. O’Connell’s pocket presence and 4.61-second 40-yard dash fit Andy Reid’s high-octane system, though his deep-ball accuracy needs polish (Pro Football Reference).

With $12.7 million in cap space, Kansas City absorbed O’Connell’s $2 million hit, leveraging cuts to Mike Danna and Nikko Remigio. “I’m here to learn,” O’Connell told reporters, embracing a role behind Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl MVP. His 2024 Raiders stint, despite a 2-15 season, reflects resilience.

Fans lit up social media: “O’Connell behind Mahomes? Depth secured!” one tweeted (@ChiefsFocus). The Raiders, pivoting to a new quarterback, let O’Connell walk as an unrestricted free agent. With three remaining picks, including No. 226, Kansas City eyes receiver depth to replace DeAndre Hopkins. O’Connell’s signing, a low-risk coup, fuels Chiefs Kingdom’s 2025 Super Bowl dreams, safeguarding Mahomes’ throne.