Sad News: Las Vegas Raiders set to cut ties with two stars after 2025 minicamp
Sad News: Raiders Expected to Move On from Zamir White and Aidan O’Connell After 2025 Minicamp
The Las Vegas Raiders are reportedly preparing to part ways with two young players once considered key pieces of their future — running back Zamir White and quarterback Aidan O’Connell. Following a disappointing showing through the 2025 minicamp, the team appears set to move on.
For Zamir White, the fall from grace has been steep. Once seen as a power back with breakout potential, White struggled to find his footing in the 2024 season. In 13 appearances, he managed just 183 rushing yards on 65 carries — a dismal 2.8 yards per carry. The inefficiency became a growing concern as the Raiders tried to retool their offense under new offensive coordinator Luke Getsy.
“Coming into 2024, Luke Getsy changes the scheme a little bit and goes to a wide zone,” NFL analyst Josh Carpenter explained. “And tries to make Zamir into something that he was not. I do not think there is any other way to classify Zamir White’s 2024 season other than a great disappointment.”
The issue wasn’t just performance — it was fit. White, a downhill, physical runner, didn’t transition well into the wide-zone offense that emphasizes vision, agility, and quick cuts. That misalignment raised questions about the Raiders’ overall roster-building strategy. “This is where the draft process matters,” Carpenter added. “It’s not just about talent — it’s about selecting players that fit your scheme.”
Adding to White’s complications is the emergence of running back George Jeanty, whose explosive speed and adaptability to the new system have reportedly impressed the coaching staff. With Jeanty ascending and White floundering, the writing seems to be on the wall.
Meanwhile, Aidan O’Connell’s time in Las Vegas may also be winding down. After showing flashes of promise in his rookie year, O’Connell has struggled to keep his footing amid an evolving quarterback room. The Raiders added veteran Geno Smith via trade and promptly extended his contract, signaling confidence in Smith as a transitional starter.
On top of that, the team drafted developmental quarterback Cam Miller in the sixth round — and early reports suggest Miller is making a strong impression at minicamp. According to The New York Times, the Raiders have already been gauging trade interest around the league for O’Connell, hoping to land a Day 3 draft pick in return.
“The Raiders’ new brass doesn’t seem that high on incumbent Aidan O’Connell,” NFL insider Vic Tafur noted. “Many expect them to try and trade him.”
For both players, the circumstances are a brutal reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL. In a league built on constant evolution and competition, Zamir White and Aidan O’Connell are now at a career crossroads. With minicamp wrapping up, their time in silver and black may already be over.
