Tom Brady may influence the Raiders’ decision regarding head coach Antonio Pierce’s future after the 2024 NFL season.
The Las Vegas Raiders have endured a rough 2024 season, holding a 2-11 record heading into Week 15 and ranking among the league’s worst teams. The situation has worsened due to injuries, with quarterback Gardner Minshew out for the season and Aidan O’Connell potentially sidelined for Week 15. Significant offseason changes, including at head coach, appear likely.
NFL insider Dianna Russini discussed the potential for the Raiders to part ways with Pierce. One key factor could be the involvement of minority owner Tom Brady.
“I think the Raiders will let Antonio Pierce finish the year before making a decision,” Russini said on the Scoop City podcast. “Mark Davis really likes Pierce, but he despises losing, especially at this level. Tom Brady’s role as a minority owner also cannot be overlooked. His influence is significant, and this kind of losing won’t sit well if he wants to remain part of the organization.”
Russini suggested Pierce’s tenure might be cut short, labeling it a “bad bet.”
“This isn’t the outcome they envisioned when firing Josh McDaniels and appointing Antonio Pierce as head coach,” she added. “It’s clear this approach hasn’t worked.”
Speculation about Pierce’s replacement includes Mike Vrabel, who played alongside Brady during their time in New England.
Bright Spot: Brock Bowers’ Record-Setting Rookie Season
Despite their struggles, the Raiders have a standout player in rookie tight end Brock Bowers. In Week 14, Bowers set an NFL rookie record for tight ends with 87 receptions, surpassing Sam LaPorta’s 2023 mark of 86. With 933 receiving yards and four touchdowns so far, the first-round pick has exceeded expectations.
With four games remaining, Bowers is poised to further elevate his numbers and cement his place in the Raiders’ future offensive plans.
