Converted try for Antonio Pierce. Interim coach following the thanks of Josh McDaniels, Antonio Pierce was confirmed this Friday at the head of the Las Vegas Raiders according to information from Ian Rapoport (NFL Media).
With a record of 5 wins for 4 losses, the 45-year-old ex-linebacker has won the trust of owner Mark Davis, after having won that of the players. Maxx Crosby, All-Pro this season, had for example threatened to request a trade if Pierce was not confirmed.
Retired in 2009 after 9 seasons (at Washington then at the Giants where he won the 2007 title), Antonio Pierce then climbed the coaching ranks. He started by coaching a high school team, then distinguished himself in the university ranks (Arizona State from 2018 to 2021). Last season, finally, he once again had access to the big league by taking a position as linebackers coach with the Raiders.
This promotion to the position of head coach is therefore a first at this level. His only experience with the position dates back to his coaching days at Long Beach High School.
According to Albert Breer (NBC), Antonio Pierce has already indicated that he would surround himself with experienced profiles to compensate for his shortcomings in certain aspects of coaching.
Many projects are already waiting for the Raiders. Star runner Josh Jacobs will be a free agent, while the quarterback position remains a big question mark between a Jimmy Garoppolo relegated to the bench and a hardly more exciting Aidan O'Connell.
