New Delhi, Sept. 25 -- Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O'Connell confirmed on Thursday night why he had been away from the team. In an Instagram post, the fourth-year passer said his father, Jim O'Connell, has passed away.

The news explained a week of missed practices and O'Connell's absence from Sunday's 26-14 road win over the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. The team had listed the reason only as personal. His return date remains unclear.

Aidan O'Connell wrote the following heartfelt caption.

"It is with immense sadness that I share the passing of my Dad, Jim.

My Dad was a gift to me and to so many others. All who were fortunate enough to know him can testify to the great man he was. He impacted countless lives, and those ...