HENDERSON, Nev. — At the recent NFL owners meeting, Raiders owner Mark Davis left much uncertainty regarding the future of coach Antonio Pierce when questioned by the media. Davis expressed a desire not to dive deeply into the topic but did mention that Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco would undergo separate evaluations. The implications of this statement are concerning for Pierce, especially considering Telesco has brought in significant talent during the draft, including a potential Offensive Rookie of the Year in Brock Bowers and two starting offensive linemen.
Pierce’s situation is further complicated by the team’s current dismal record of 2-12, exacerbated by a 10-game losing streak following their defeat against Atlanta. With the ineffectual Jacksonville Jaguars (3-11) visiting this Sunday, the Raiders are slight favorites, offering Pierce an opportunity to potentially break the losing streak.
There are compelling reasons to believe that Pierce may retain his position as head coach. This is his inaugural season in the full-time role, having led the team to a 5-4 record last season when he assumed the interim position. However, he has faced challenges, including the absence of a franchise quarterback, the loss of a star running back to free agency, and numerous injuries affecting his defensive lineup and key offensive players.
Adding to the complexities, the early-season drama involving Davante Adams—who was traded to the New York Jets—created a significant distraction but also allowed the team to refocus. Despite the turbulence, Pierce noted that the players are still giving their all, approaching each game as if playoff aspirations are still within reach. “It’s not really about them fighting for me,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of team solidarity.
The Raiders franchise is currently in disarray, needing more than just a quarterback fix, though that would certainly help. It remains to be seen how much of the team’s failures can be attributed to Pierce, a factor that Davis and potential input from new minority owner Tom Brady may consider. Speculation about Mike Vrabel as a possible successor to Pierce has circulated, fueled by their shared history in New England. However, Vrabel might be vying for several head coaching positions.
There’s a chance that Davis may choose to avoid yet another coaching change, as the Raiders have cycled through four head coaches since 2017. Pierce stated, “Me and Mark Davis talk often, and the conversations have been the same as they always are, very positive,” indicating ongoing communication. When asked about his future, he simply noted, “I’m under contract.”
In terms of team performance, the Raiders’ pass rush has been relatively consistent, even in the absence of defensive end Maxx Crosby, who is sidelined for the season. During the 15-9 loss to the Falcons, the defense managed to sack quarterback Kirk Cousins three times, with a total of 12 sacks over their last three games.
One significant area that requires improvement is the running game, which has been a major factor in the team’s struggles this season. The Raiders average just 78.1 rushing yards per game, a figure that is significantly lower than that of other teams in the league. In fact, they have failed to exceed 100 yards in six of their last seven games.
On a positive note, the Raiders’ defense has kept them competitive in several recent outings, limiting powerhouse teams like the Kansas City Chiefs to just 19 points and the Falcons to 15. Atlanta was unable to score a touchdown in the last three quarters, allowing the Raiders to mount a final desperate drive.
However, the special teams unit was less reliable in the game against the Falcons, experiencing blocked extra points and two punts, with one being fielded at the 3-yard line. In terms of player injuries, rookie quarterback Aidan O’Connell (knee) was inactive during the game but is reportedly making progress. Running back Sincere McCormick (ankle) could also be facing time on the sidelines, though updates remain pending.
A staggering statistic shows that the Raiders are one of only two teams to fall behind by double digits in every game so far this season. The only other team to achieve this was the 1986 Indianapolis Colts, who trailed by 10 or more points in all their 16 games.
Looking ahead, the Raiders will face the Jaguars on Sunday in a matchup where both teams will be searching for a much-needed victory amid struggles that have them with a combined total of only five wins this season.