The future of Antonio Pierce as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders is uncertain following their 25-10 win over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that Pierce’s position is “in serious doubt,” with Raiders owner Mark Davis expected to take his time in making a final decision, likely consulting with minority owner Tom Brady before doing so. After the victory, The Athletic’s Vic Tafur asked Pierce about his future with the team, but the coach declined to comment on the matter.
Pierce had strong backing from several players earlier in the season, with Maxx Crosby, Josh Jacobs, and Davante Adams all endorsing his promotion after last year’s 8-9 record. However, both Jacobs and Adams are no longer with the team—Jacobs signed with the Green Bay Packers, and Adams was traded to the New York Jets in October. Crosby, the lone remaining supporter, recently expressed his desire to see the Raiders succeed immediately.
The Raiders (4-12) began the season with a 2-2 record but suffered a 10-game losing streak before recently defeating the Jacksonville Jaguars 19-14 on December 22. Quarterback changes also played a role in the season’s struggles, with Gardner Minshew initially starting before being sidelined by an injury. Aidan O’Connell stepped in, and the rookie reflected on the team’s resilience, stating that despite facing several tough losses, the locker room remains determined to play hard and finish strong. “We could’ve thrown in the towel a long time ago,” O’Connell remarked. “Guys are just hungry… players that want to play hard, want to work hard.”
The Raiders’ season finale is set for Allegiant Stadium against the playoff-bound Los Angeles Chargers, which could serve as a final evaluation point for Pierce’s future with the team. After the conclusion of the season, the question of Pierce’s job security will remain up in the air, with the ultimate decision yet to be made.
