Miah Massaro | Sports Editor
Tom Brady, one of the most well known names in the entire NFL, recently embarked on a new adventure, transitioning from the football field to the front office. In an exciting turn of events, Brady has become a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, bringing his storied football career into a new phase. With this move, the seven-time Super Bowl champion adds a fresh dimension to his lasting impact on the NFL.
From QB to Team Owner
After retiring for the second and final time in February 2023, Brady wasted no time exploring new opportunities beyond the field. While his broadcasting deal with Fox Sports made headlines, his decision to invest in the Raiders signals his deep connection to the sport. Raiders owner Mark Davis welcomed Brady into the ownership group earlier this year, citing the quarterback's winning mentality and unparalleled leadership as reasons for bringing him on board.
For Brady, this ownership stake isn’t just a business deal. It’s a chance to continue influencing the game he’s dominated for two decades. In a statement, Brady expressed his excitement on his instagram: “I grew up on the field, and it’s a blessing to know I’ll be involved in the greatest league in the world for the rest of my life.”
A New Start for the Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders, with three Super Bowl titles in their history, are hoping that Brady’s success-driven mindset will have a positive impact on the franchise. While Brady won’t be involved in day-to-day team operations or on-field decisions, his wealth of experience as a player will offer valuable insights behind the scenes.
Interestingly, Brady’s connection to the Raiders isn’t entirely new. Back in 2020, when Brady left the New England Patriots, there were rumors that the Raiders had shown interest in signing him. Though that move never materialized and he went on to play with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Brady’s arrival as a minority owner feels like a full-circle moment.
Expanding His Presence in Sports Ownership
Brady’s involvement with the Raiders also isn’t his first step into sports ownership. Earlier in 2023, he became a part-owner of the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, another team owned by Mark Davis. This trend of retired athletes investing in sports franchises continues to grow, with Brady joining the ranks of stars like Michael Jordan and David Beckham who have taken on similar roles.
For Brady, this shift marks a significant new direction in his post-playing career. While his time as the NFL’s greatest quarterback is behind him, his transition into ownership shows that his influence on the sport will continue in meaningful ways. With his unparalleled knowledge of the game, Brady’s contribution to the Raiders could be invaluable.
Mixed Reactions from Raiders Fans
The news of Brady joining the Raiders ownership group has sparked varied reactions among the team’s fan base. Many Raiders fans still recall the controversial "Tuck Rule" game in 2002, when a disputed call involving Brady led to the Patriots defeating the Raiders in the playoffs. For some, these memories make it difficult to fully embrace Brady’s new role.
However, other fans are excited about the potential for Brady to help elevate the Raiders. Known for his relentless drive and commitment to winning, Brady’s presence is seen by many as a positive step toward building a stronger, more competitive team. Raider Nation, known for its passionate fan base, now has even more reason to look forward to the future.
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