Ourlads' Profile:
2023 Guide: What Ourlads’ NFL Scouting Services said about AIDAN O’CONNELL:
Purdue | H: 6030 W: 212 40: 4.90 A: 3214 H: 0934 W: 7614
Two-year starter, Long Grove, IL. Also started three games in both 2019 and 2020. Two-time second team All-Big 10. After beginning his career as a walkon, O’Connell had to scratch and claw his way to the top of the depth chart. Is known for his work ethic as seen as how far he came through the time he put in to improve. He finally got a hold of the starting job during the 2021 season and took off. He went over 500 yards twice that year, a first in program history. Also set school records in completion percentage and passing efficiency. A pure pocket passer who excels at reading coverage and getting the ball out quickly. An intelligent, well-prepared player who can go through a read progression and consistently put the ball where he wants it. Above average arm strength he can get the ball outside the hashes with solid velocity. Natural accuracy down the field. Layers the ball over defenders with a good trajectory and a tight spiral. Keeps things on time. Will get it out in a hurry and sets his targets up for after-catch opportunities. He can throw receivers open versus man coverage and is accurate on route conversions. Minimal escape ability but flashes ability to move in the pocket. Has made a few plays running out of the pocket but he’s not what you’d call a creator. He prefers to stand in and throw it under pressure. Can be reckless with the ball and throw it into coverage or force it into tight windows. His accuracy and velocity wanes throwing on the run. As a result he doesn’t make a lot of plays escaping pressure. His production was paired with turnovers (24 interceptions over his last two years). O’Connell can be a valuable intangible-based asset to a quarterback room, but should be in a traditional pro style offense. His value will vary greatly from team to team.
2022 Stats: 320/499, 3490 yds, 64.1%, 22 TD, 13 INT, -81 yds rushing, 1 TD, 132.2 QB rating. 4th/5th round.