The 2024 season has been a major disappointment for the Las Vegas Raiders, plagued by inconsistent quarterback play, injuries, and off-field drama during Antonio Pierce’s first year as head coach.
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Pierce earned the role after the team’s strong finish last year under his interim leadership. However, with a dismal 2-8 record, speculation is mounting about his future. If the team’s struggles continue, the Raiders may explore other options for head coach.
According to Evan Massey of Sports Illustrated, former Tennessee Titans head coach and current Cleveland Browns consultant Mike Vrabel has emerged as a top candidate. Reportedly, Raiders part-owner Tom Brady favors Vrabel as the team’s potential head coach in 2025. A league source confirmed to Browns on SI that Vrabel is a strong contender if the Raiders decide to move on from Pierce, whose tenure has seen the team’s worst start since 2018 despite maintaining locker room support.
Brady and Vrabel share a well-documented connection, having won three Super Bowls together as teammates with the New England Patriots. Vrabel has also enjoyed significant success as a coach, guiding the Titans to three consecutive playoff appearances, including an AFC Championship Game berth in 2019. However, his future isn’t guaranteed, as the Browns may look to retain him by parting ways with current head coach Kevin Stefanski.
League insiders suggest Vrabel will be one of the most sought-after coaching candidates this offseason. If the Raiders pursue him, they’ll need to make a compelling offer to secure his services. While the situation remains fluid, the prospect of a Vrabel-Raiders partnership is gaining traction.
