The last two seasons have been frustrating for the Las Vegas Raiders, as they have won a total of just 14 games despite possessing ample talent throughout their roster.
They made some big changes this season by benching veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and firing Josh McDaniels as head coach, and after McDaniels was dismissed, they promoted Antonio Pierce to interim head coach.
Some may want the Raiders to go after a more established head coach such as Jim Harbaugh or Mike Vrabel, but there is also a groundswell of support for Pierce to become their permanent head coach.
NBA star Damian Lillard is one of those who feels Pierce is an excellent choice, via @mikeaveli24 on Twitter.
Dame has spoken. #AP2LV 🏴☠️@Dame_Lillard #RaiderNation #BTB
(Via @VegasSports // @MikeDixon_VST ) pic.twitter.com/n5PsvVnBJW
— Mike🏁🏁☁️ (@mikeaveli24) January 16, 2024
Lillard, who was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks this past summer, is a native of Oakland, where the Raiders spent many years before moving to Sin City for the 2020 season.
One of the things many quickly noticed about Pierce was the respect and buy-in he commanded from his players, which is perhaps the most important thing a coach needs to do from the get-go.
While McDaniels never played in the NFL, Pierce spent nine seasons as a linebacker, and he won a Super Bowl championship as a member of the New York Giants in the 2007 campaign.
Las Vegas has star wide receiver Davante Adams, a strong WR2 in Jakobi Meyers, a Pro Bowl pass rusher in Maxx Crosby and, at least for the moment, a very capable running back in Josh Jacobs.
They have to do something about their big hole at the QB spot, unless they want to roll again with Aidan O’Connell, the rookie who had 2,218 yards, 12 passing touchdowns, and seven interceptions in 11 games this season.
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Michael Irvin Says Raiders Players Have A Favorite For HC Position