Antonio Pierce coached in nine total games on an interim basis with the Las Vegas Raiders. He’ll be guaranteed a 10th game moving forward to 2024.
Pierce spent his Friday finalizing a deal to become the Silver and Black’s full-time head coach. His elevation to official coaching leader was met with significant praise across the NFL world.
“Welcome News to Many” Among Reactions for Antonio Pierce
Mike Garofolo of the NFL Network was among the throng of national insiders who helped break the news about Pierce’s official hire. But by Garafolo’s words, this move will be greatly welcomed by Raiders fans and their players.
“After going 5-4 down the stretch, Pierce gets the full-time job, which is welcome news to many, including Maxx Crosby,” Garafolo posted on X (formerly known as Twitter).
The All-Pro edge rusher Crosby emerged as a big Wild Card in this decision. Crosby became vocal about wanting Pierce to lead the Raiders — even demanding a trade if Las Vegas hired someone else on his podcast Saturday.
Raiders fans have welcomed the Friday news of Pierce getting his interim tag off him. One fan typed out an excited “Let’s go Raiders!” post on X — one that included a long line of Ss in the word Raiders. Another fan posted how the move was “not deserved.” But rather “earned” on Pierce’s end.
One more fan even made this strong prediction: Pierce could end up becoming the next Dan Campbell, who’s enjoying lots of success with the Detroit Lions and was once an interim head coach himself.
“Glad Antonio Pierce is gonna get a shot with the Raiders. Roster obviously wanted him to be their coach. They played with their hair on fire last 5-6 games. It could be like Dan Campbell with the Lions if he gets the right OC [offensive coordinator] and a QB,” the fan posted online.
What’s Pierce’s First Task as Head Coach?
With Pierce getting sworn in, he’ll now have to juggle the upcoming free agency period two months from now and the NFL Draft.
However, both aren’t considered the first moves he must make as head coach.
Per the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Pierce will more than likely not attempt to retain one side of the ball’s coaching staff.
“First task for Raiders coach Antonio Pierce: Address the offensive side of the ball, as most coaches won’t be retained,” Rapoport said.
The offensive coordinator is one area Pierce will have the immediate opportunity to address.
“Interim OC Bo Hardegree leaves Las Vegas with plenty of play-calling experience, helping this offense and its young QB thrive late this season. Now available,” Rapoport shared.
Pierce will more than likely scour across the league and be mindful of which offensive coordinators won’t get retained by their current teams.
MORE: Why the Raiders Hired Antonio Pierce: Las Vegas Removes Interim Tag on Head Coach
He’ll also have to locate the right play-caller to cater to All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams and Co.
He’ll also need to hire someone with a proven background in quarterback development. The right hire will benefit the career of late-season starter Aidan O’Connell moving forward as well as the rest of the QB room.
Did Maxx Crosby React Toward Hire?
Tracing back to Crosby, once again he sent out the biggest ultimatum toward the Raiders in their head coach search.
“I want to be a Raider … but if we go in a different direction, there is nothing that is off the table,” Crosby said on his podcast “The Rush” before the signing.
He joined many Raider players who warmly embraced Pierce’s coaching and leadership following their 3-5 start. Together, Pierce and the Raiders went on to finish 5-4 and pulled out the following:
- Stunned the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs on the road on Christmas Day.
- Dropped a franchise record 63 points on fellow AFC West rival the Los Angeles Chargers, which became Bolts head coach Brandon Staley’s final game.
- Eliminated the Denver Broncos from playoff consideration in Week 18 by winning that rivalry contest.
Well, Crosby sent out some succinct — yet excited — posts after Pierce was named head coach.
Let’s Work!! 🦅🏴☠️
— 🦅MaddMaxx🦅 (@CrosbyMaxx) January 19, 2024
Yet, Crosby wasn’t ready to log off his X account just yet. He posted Pierce’s fiery speech detailing “The Raiders Way” — which Crosby now calls the way for 2024.
THE RAIDER WAY 2024🦅💎 pic.twitter.com/P3BEJkNDgr
— 🦅MaddMaxx🦅 (@CrosbyMaxx) January 19, 2024
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