The Las Vegas Raiders faced a significant defeat on Sunday, losing 34-10 to the Giants in a crucial matchup that impacts their chances for the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
With their current struggle—particularly at the quarterback position—it’s likely that the top pick will be a quarterback. This isn’t too shocking; poor teams typically lose games like this, leading to a prime draft position and a chance to select a quarterback.
It’s a familiar cycle.
However, this situation feels different. The Raiders aren’t just struggling; they have an iconic quarterback as a minority owner, which sets them apart significantly.
This is critical because it means that someone with genuine knowledge will oversee the Raiders’ draft strategy. Those who thought moving on from Geno Smith was wise won’t be the only voices shaping their future QB choice.
Moreover, it’s a miscalculation to think that Brady’s influence on the draft stops there.
The seven-time Super Bowl winner has made some insightful comments recently, emphasizing that “teams fail quarterbacks long before quarterbacks fail teams.” He highlighted how essential it was for him to learn the position and how to read defenses—a process, according to Brady, that’s often neglected in other organizations.
In essence, he takes the development of quarterbacks seriously.
So, don’t think he’ll just be passively watching the Raiders select their QB. It’s likely he’ll be involved in a manner similar to how Belichick guided a young Tom Brady in 2000, significantly impacting not just the choice but the overall draft strategy.
Teach and coach.
Of course, he won’t be a constant fixture through the season due to his commitments at Fox. But, can you imagine being the top pick and having the opportunity to text the greatest quarterback of all time with questions before and after games?
If you believe Brady won’t have any say while the Raiders select their next quarterback, you might not fully grasp his competitive nature.
He is driven to win at every opportunity.
And let’s not forget that memorable video of him in the coaching booth, right?
Yes, he’s involved and dedicated. The Raiders still need to decide between Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson, or Dante Moore. What’s clear is that whichever player they choose will be in a prime spot to thrive, possibly even better than Brady was in New England.
He’ll have access to everything he requires, right when he needs it.
That’s invaluable.
