The Las Vegas Raiders finished their season with a 4-13 record, missing the postseason for the third consecutive year. As a result, major changes are underway, with the team beginning its search for a new general manager, head coach, and potentially making several roster moves, holding the No. 6 overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft.
One of the biggest decisions the Raiders made this offseason came when owner Mark Davis made it clear that minority owner and seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady would play a key role in the hiring of the team’s next head coach and general manager.
However, this decision has come with some controversy. Brady is also a Fox Sports announcer, and one of the top candidates for the Raiders' head coaching job happens to be Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. Johnson's season ended on Saturday night, with Brady on the call, a situation Brady navigated carefully when discussing Johnson.
Despite the drama, this hire is crucial for the future of the franchise. One of their few bright spots is superstar pass rusher Maxx Crosby, who was asked about Brady’s involvement in finding the next head coach. Crosby made his opinion very clear.
"I’ve known Tom [Brady] for a few years now." Crosby said. "We talk here and there, and like you said, he came in to win, and that’s what he’s done his whole life. He’s a Michigan man, but I believe in Tom, and we’ll see what happens. I’m really excited to see what the future holds."
Crosby is a four-time Pro Bowler and has totaled 366 tackles, 59.5 sacks, 105 tackles for loss, and 144 QB hits over his six seasons in the league. However, he’s only appeared in one postseason game.
Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) speaks during a press conference during training camp at the Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images
Candice Ward-Imagn Images
Still, the hope is that, with Brady's help, the Raiders can position Crosby to compete on the biggest stage—something he has made clear is a top priority for him.
“At the end of the day, the most important thing to me, like you said, is stability and winning,” Crosby said after the season. “I want the chance to actually win and be in those games, playing at this time of the year. I know what I bring to the table as a leader and as a player, and I want everyone else on board. My main focus is being in that environment. So, whoever is going to give the Raiders the best chance to do that, I’m all in.”
