Antonio Pierce has faced significant challenges as the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, with limited opportunities to make a lasting impression. Despite expressing confidence in quarterback Aidan O’Connell’s potential to be an NFL starter (as reported by The Athletic’s Vic Tafur), Pierce was not provided with a strong supporting cast, particularly at the quarterback position. Unsurprisingly, the Raiders find themselves near the top of the 2025 NFL Draft order.
The Raiders also face tough competition within their division, which includes prominent coaches like Sean Payton and Jim Harbaugh, alongside the dominant Andy Reid–Patrick Mahomes duo. With no proven quarterback or coach to anchor the team, the Raiders are at a crossroads as the 2024 season concludes. A critical offseason looms, and Pierce has been under scrutiny for much of the season.
While players have rallied behind Pierce, including Maxx Crosby, who reportedly threatened to request a trade in his defense, the team’s record stands at 4-12. Although the Raiders have won their last two games, many around the league expect the organization to part ways with Pierce after Week 18, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Pierce’s promotion to head coach came without a comprehensive search process, and speculation suggests the Raiders may revisit a broader search for his replacement.
If the Raiders fire Pierce, owner Mark Davis could face a scenario where he is paying four head coaches simultaneously, including Jon Gruden and Josh McDaniels, whose contracts remain unresolved. Pierce’s lack of prior experience as an NFL coordinator or college head coach, along with questions about his staff’s effectiveness—including the midseason firing of offensive coordinator Luke Getsy—has raised concerns.
Meanwhile, minority owner Tom Brady is expected to play a significant role in the Raiders’ search for a quarterback and potentially a new head coach. Although Brady’s influence is unique due to his stature, his commitments as a FOX analyst and his focus on other ventures may limit his involvement. A potential connection between Brady and former Titans head coach Mike Vrabel has emerged, but Vrabel’s ties to Josh McDaniels might complicate his candidacy.
Despite a 5-4 record as an interim coach and prior interest from teams like the Titans and Falcons, Pierce’s tenure with the Raiders has not inspired confidence. His record as head coach matches McDaniels’ at 9-16, and rumors about his potential firing underscore the team’s ongoing struggles. As Black Monday approaches, Pierce’s future with the Raiders remains uncertain, highlighting the challenges faced by the organization in its quest for stability.
