Las Vegas Raiders Working to Finalize Deal to Hire Antonio Pierce as Head Coach
The Las Vegas Raiders are in the final stages of securing a deal to hire Antonio Pierce as their head coach, according to sources. Pierce, who was elevated from linebackers coach to interim coach after the firing of Josh McDaniels and Dave Ziegler, made an immediate impact on the team’s culture. Under Pierce’s leadership, the Raiders finished the season with a winning record of 5-4 and went 3-1 in the AFC West. They also achieved notable victories against the Los Angeles Chargers and the Kansas City Chiefs.
When Mark Davis, the owner of the Raiders, first promoted Pierce, he emphasized that he wanted him to “lead” and “delegate” rather than simply coach. This approach seemed to work well for the team, as they played a cleaner and more focused game under Pierce’s guidance. The Raiders led the league in fewest points allowed per game, defensive touchdowns, and fewest penalties during Pierce’s tenure. They also had a high number of takeaways, a positive point differential, and were among the top teams in sacks.
One of the reasons why Pierce was successful in changing the team’s culture was his understanding of the Raiders’ history and identity. Growing up in Compton, he was a fan of both the Raiders and the rap group N.W.A., which was known for wearing Raiders gear. Pierce immediately created a players-first atmosphere by installing a mini-basketball hoop in the locker room and changing the practice playlist to include N.W.A.’s music. The team also revived their Friday dance-off tradition and celebrated home victories with cigars in the locker room.
Pierce’s leadership style resonated with the players, who bought into his approach. All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams expressed his support for Pierce, stating that he would “run through a wall” for him. Maxx Crosby, a three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher, also praised Pierce’s ability to embrace the Raiders’ history and motivate the players. The support extended beyond the current roster, with Raider alumni like Charles Woodson and Jim Plunkett endorsing Pierce as well.
Despite the positive changes brought about by Pierce, the Raiders fell short of making the playoffs due to losses against the Minnesota Vikings and the Indianapolis Colts. However, the team showed significant improvement under his leadership, finishing the season with an 8-9 record. This marked only the third winning record for the Raiders since their appearance in Super Bowl XXXVII in 2003.
If the deal is finalized, Pierce will become the seventh head coach hired by Mark Davis since he took control of the franchise in 2011. The Raiders have had limited success in recent years, with only two playoff appearances since 2003. However, Pierce’s impact on the team’s culture and performance has generated optimism among players and fans alike.
While there is no official word on the status of interim general manager Champ Kelly, he is considered a strong candidate to return in that role. As for Pierce, he remains humble about the possibility of becoming the head coach, stating that he will never use the word “deserve” but hopes to have earned the opportunity.
Overall, Antonio Pierce’s tenure as interim coach for the Las Vegas Raiders has been marked by significant improvements in the team’s culture and performance. If he is officially hired as head coach, there is hope that he will continue to lead the Raiders towards success in future seasons.