Stephen A. Smith, ESPN’s outspoken personality, has delivered some bold advice for the Las Vegas Raiders, one that involves Tom Brady in a far more influential role than he currently holds.
Brady, a minority owner of the Raiders, splits his time between his ownership stake and a highly lucrative broadcasting career at Fox Sports, where he earns more than $37 million annually. Smith argues that Brady should step up and run football operations for the franchise, especially given the team’s disastrous 2025 season.
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The Raiders are mired in a 2-12 record, reflecting deep organizational problems both on and off the field. Their struggles began in the offseason, with questionable decisions at quarterback.
The team traded for Geno Smith and signed him to a contract extension, only to see him regress into one of the league’s least effective quarterbacks. Even as backup Kenny Pickett steps in due to Smith‘s injuries, the offense has failed to find consistency, leaving fans and analysts frustrated.
Smith acknowledges that Brady is unlikely to leave his lucrative broadcasting role, but he insists that the Hall of Famer’s leadership and football intellect could provide the guidance the Raiders desperately need.
“Put Tom Brady in charge, Mark Davis. Just hand over. … hand over football operations to Tom Brady okay,” said Smith.
“Not that you can, because he’s not going to leave the job that he’s got at Fox paying him over $37 million to run the damn Raiders.
“He ain’t stupid at all. But ask him anyways. Figure out the Raiders. Because you need all the help you can get.”
Raiders’ struggles show leadership is needed
Vegas’s coaching staff has been unable to reverse the team’s downward spiral. Their recent 31-0 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles marked the eighth consecutive defeat and underscored the Raiders’ lack of cohesion.
Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty has shown flashes of talent, but the offensive line and game planning have often left him exposed, forcing him to rack up more yards after contact than total yards in some games. This lack of support has limited his ability to contribute effectively, highlighting broader issues in player development and strategy.
Beyond individual player struggles, the Raiders have failed to establish a consistent identity on offense. Decisions regarding play-calling and overall strategy have contributed to a season that feels increasingly adrift. This context is why Smith suggests that someone with Brady‘s experience and football IQ could make a meaningful difference.
As a 7-time Super Bowl champion and one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history, Brady understands the nuances of both strategy and personnel evaluation. His input in football operations could theoretically help create a more competitive and cohesive team.
While the likelihood of Brady leaving his broadcasting job to take the reins of football operations is slim, the mere suggestion highlights how desperate the Raiders’ situation has become.
