Antonio Pierce named Head Coach of Las Vegas Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders appoint Antonio Pierce as their new head coach, ending his interim stint.

The Las Vegas Raiders officially appointed Antonio Pierce as their head coach on Friday, marking the end of his successful interim stint leading the team as linebacker coach.

Pierce assumed the role on Oct 31, stepping in after the dismissal of Josh McDaniels due to a 3-5 start to the season. Elevating from his position as linebacker coach, Pierce made a notable impact during his interim tenure.

Under Pierce’s guidance, the Raiders secured a commendable 5-4 record. Noteworthy victories include a 20-14 triumph over the defending Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, and a dominant 63-21 victory against the Los Angeles Chargers. His debut game witnessed the Raiders convincingly defeating the Giants with a resounding 30-6 scoreline.

The former New York Giants linebacker had been linked to coaching vacancies with the Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons. However, it was his impressive leadership with the Raiders that secured him the head coaching position on a full-time basis.

Pierce’s appointment garnered widespread support within the Raiders’ squad, with all-pro pass rusher Maxx Crosby expressing his preference for Pierce to secure the head coach role permanently. Crosby had hinted at potential considerations of moving on from the team if Pierce was not given the top coaching position.

A decorated player himself, Pierce contributed significantly to the New York Giants’ Super Bowl victory in the 2007 season. His transition from player to head coach now adds a new chapter to his football legacy with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Source: Newsroom