Tom Brady Steps Up as Raiders Owner at OTAs

Tom Brady's role with the Las Vegas Raiders has become clearer since he was approved as a minority owner in mid-October 2024. Questions lingered throughout the 2025 season. Critics raised conflict-of-interest concerns related to his role at FOX. Others noted his limited presence in the building. But with OTAs underway, Brady has been spotted at practice more frequently. His increased involvement is drawing positive reactions from players and coaches.

Brady Earns Praise from Raiders Players and Coaches

Players and coaches have taken notice of Brady's growing presence. Tight end Brock Bowers was direct: "He's definitely been around more, and I mean, he's a resource anytime we need him. It's really good to have that kind of guy around. I mean, the G.O.A.T." Center Tyler Linderbaum echoed similar sentiments, noting Brady's value even without direct interaction: "Having a mind like that in the building is nice to have." Offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko was more detailed in his praise. "Tom is an unbelievable resource for us," Janocko said. "He's been very open. He's somebody that we can pick up the phone and call."

Brady also played a role in landing head coach Klint Kubiak this offseason.

Taron Johnson Holdout Puts Raiders Depth on Notice

The Raiders face a separate challenge in the defensive backfield. Newly acquired defensive back Taron Johnson has missed all OTAs. Reports indicate he is seeking more guaranteed money. Johnson was traded to Las Vegas this offseason and is expected to start at nickel. His absence has prompted the Raiders to experiment with alternatives. During a recent media viewing, the Raiders rotated Jeremy Chinn and rookie safety Treydan Stukes between nickel and safety. Isaiah Pola-Mao also worked as the other deep safety in that group.

Raiders Nickel Candidates: Stukes, Chinn, and Pola-Mao

The Raiders have limited pure nickel options on the roster. Greedy Vance is one of them. He played 66 snaps last season, allowing just four catches on seven targets for 47 yards. Pola-Mao logged 102 slot snaps in 2024, allowing two catches for 12 yards with an interception in slot coverage. Rookie safeties Treydan Stukes and Dalton Johnson are also potential candidates. Stukes has 441 career college slot snaps. Chinn has experience at the position but has historically struggled in coverage. Discussions with Johnson are likely ongoing. For now, the Raiders are testing their options.