Former NFL executive Michael Lombardi highlighted Tom Brady’s pivotal role in the Raiders’ pursuit of Ben Johnson. Brady’s championship pedigree could steer the Lions’ offensive coordinator against Las Vegas.
Lombardi has decades of NFL front office experience, while Brady recently joined the Raiders as a minority owner. Johnson transformed Detroit’s offense into one of the NFL’s most potent units as their coordinator.
Lombardi shared insights about Brady’s influence on the Raiders’ coaching search during his Thursday appearance on the “Pat McAfee Show.”
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“I think it’s really a step in the right direction,” Lombardi said. “I mean, you get a guy who understands what it takes to win, a former player who has reached the highest level of his profession, the best quarterback, the goat. And you get him in there, and you sit in a meeting with him, and he knows what it takes to win.”
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Lombardi emphasized Brady’s expertise in team building.
“I’ve spoken to Tom many times before about team building, about how to scout inside out. I think Tom will do well,” he said.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed that those “associated with the job” believe Ben Johnson is the front-runner to land the position with the Raiders.
Ben Johnson can reshape the future of the Raiders
The coaching search carries extra weight after Las Vegas’ 4-13 season led to the firing of head coach Antonio Pierce and GM Tom Telesco. Pro Football Talk reports that the Raiders were preparing a “massive” contract offer for Johnson, though they still must meet the Rooney Rule’s in-person interview requirement.
Radio host Dan Patrick noted that Brady’s presence has increased the offense’s appeal to Johnson. Lions coordinator previously turned down head coaching opportunities but seems intrigued to work with NFL legend.
The Raiders have the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This could allow Johnson and Brady to choose their quarterback from prospects like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward.
Johnson can’t accept an offer until Detroit’s playoffs are over. The Lions host Washington in Saturday’s divisional round, with Brady calling the game for Fox. This timing could prove symbolic — Brady could witness Johnson’s final game with Detroit before possibly welcoming him to Las Vegas.
Edited by Krutik Jain
