HENDERSON, Nev. - In a surprising turn of events, the Las Vegas Raiders have announced that rookie quarterback Aidan O'Connell will take over the starting role, replacing the high-priced and oft-injured veteran Jimmy Garoppolo. The change comes in the aftermath of the Raiders' decision to fire coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler.

Interim coach Antonio Pierce confirmed the decision on Wednesday, stating, "It will be Aidan going forward." With McDaniels being the offensive playcaller, his departure has prompted restructuring in the coaching staff. Assistant general manager Champ Kelly has been elevated to the role of interim GM.

With the departure of McDaniels and offensive coordinator Mick Lombardi, the Raiders have named quarterbacks coach Bo Hardegree as the new offensive coordinator and playcaller. While there are concerns about the team's offensive performance, ranking 31st in total offense in yards per game, it remains to be seen what playbook Hardegree will implement, as he has never been an NFL playcaller before.

O'Connell, a fourth-round pick out of Purdue, made his first start for the Raiders in their Week 4 loss against the Los Angeles Chargers, filling in for Garoppolo who was out with a concussion. He also made an appearance in Week 7, relieving veteran Brian Hoyer in another defeat to the Chicago Bears, as Garoppolo was sidelined with a back injury.

In his limited playing time, O'Connell has shown promise, completing 65.4% of his passes for 313 yards, with one touchdown pass and two interceptions. He possesses a stronger arm than both Garoppolo and Hoyer, providing a much-needed option for the Raiders' vertical game.

Garoppolo, who signed a lucrative three-year, $72.75 million free agent contract with Las Vegas in March, has struggled this season. Despite completing 65.5% of his passes for 1,205 yards and seven touchdowns, he has thrown a league-leading nine interceptions. Additionally, Garoppolo has been plagued by injuries, missing 2½ games.

With the change at quarterback, the Raiders are hoping that O'Connell will bring fresh energy and a boost to the team's performance on offense. The decision to start the rookie also raises questions about Garoppolo's future with the franchise, particularly with his contract guarantees looming in the coming years.

The Raiders will kick off their new era with O'Connell under center on Sunday when they face the New York Giants at Allegiant Stadium. It remains to be seen whether the young quarterback can provide the spark needed to turn around the Raiders' struggling offense and secure a much-needed victory.