Raiders Flock Towards Ben Johnson, Inspired by Tom Brady's Influence
Raiders Flock Towards Ben Johnson, Inspired by Tom Brady's Influence
It's crystal clear that the recent shake-up in the Las Vegas Raiders has been heavily influenced by their new minority owner, Tom Brady. This transformation began with the dismissal of head coach Antonio Pierce following a disappointing season. More recently, general manager Tom Telesco also bid farewell after a brief stint.
Mark Davis, the Raiders' owner, has a long-standing relationship with Brady and is turning to the seven-time Super Bowl champion quarterback to help revive the team's fortunes. The latest evidence of this can be seen in the Raiders' reported interest in Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as their next head coach.
According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, the Raiders are keen on Johnson, and they are willing to wait as long as necessary to secure their potential future coach. Johnson met with the Raiders' remaining brass virtually and has a formal interview lined up once Detroit's season ends.
Brady's Impact and Johnson's Fit
Johnson, a highly sought-after coaching candidate, has led the Detroit Lions' offense to finishes in the top 10 in scoring in each of the last three seasons. His impressive track record focused on the Lions' No. 1 scoring average of 33.2 points per game this season makes him an appealing fit for the Raiders.
Brady's influence within the Raiders' organization is undeniable. His recent stake purchase was not a passive investment, and he has aptly demonstrated his involvement in the team's nuances during his playing career and current broadcasting role.
Other Suitable Head Coach Candidates
While Johnson may be the frontrunner, there are other notable coaches that have been mentioned or have already interviewed for the position. These include Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh, and former Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll.
Carroll led the Seahawks to two Super Bowl appearances and a title during his tenure. However, it remains to be seen whether the Raiders would be interested in a 73-year-old head coach given their rebuilding status.
Spagnuolo, a respected defensive mind, could be a strong candidate. He has played a significant role in the Kansas City Chiefs' dynasty, guiding their defense to a top-four scoring and top-nine yards-allowed ranking in the regular season.
Monken's suitability is also worth considering, given his role in Lamar Jackson's MVP-winning performance with the Baltimore Ravens.
Belichick's Prospects
Recent reports have suggested that Brady and Bill Belichick, who coached together to six Super Bowl titles with the New England Patriots, have had contact. However, Belichick's espoused interest in college coaching with North Carolina suggests he has no immediate plans to return to professional football. Still, Brady's belief in Belichick's expertise and stature as a coach to establish a successful Raiders program underlines the possibility that he may one day rejoin the professional ranks.
The unexpected dismissal of Telesco has signaled a complete transformation in the Raiders' organization. Brady is playing a major role in this overhaul, and the prospect of an experienced head coach is crucial for setting the foundation for a winning program.
Pete Carroll, the former Seattle Seahawks head coach, is one of the notable coaches who has been mentioned as a potential candidate for the Raiders head coaching position.
Mark Davis, the Raiders' owner, has a long-standing relationship with Bill Belichick, making Belichick's prospect of joining the Raiders as head coach an intriguing possibility.
Brady's stake purchase in the Raiders and his involvement in the team's nuances during his playing career and current broadcasting role showcase his significant influence in the organization.
Ben Johnson, the Detroit Lions offensive coordinator, has led his team's offense to top 10 scoring finishes in the last three seasons and could be a strong fit for the Raiders head coaching position, as they look to revive their fortunes.