Las Vegas Raiders to ‘aggressively pursue’ Tom Brady in 2023 offseason
The Las Vegas Raiders are moving on from Derek Carr this offseason, either trading the Pro Bowl quarterback or releasing him before March. As the door closes on one franchise icon, Las Vegas may be preparing to make a run at another.
After a disappointing 2022 season, the Raiders front office and ownership want improvement from the offense in 2023. While the defense played a role in Las Vegas winning just six games, the emphasis on improvement centers on the quarterback position.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders ‘do their research’ on Tom Brady
Fortunately for Las Vegas, there are a variety of options available. Holding the 7th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Raiders may be able to either draft or trade up for a quarterback prospect like Will Levis or CJ Stroud. While each new signal caller could provide the franchise with long-term stability, immediate results are reportedly the priority.
According to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports, the Raiders will aggressively pursue Tom Brady this offseason with his ties to coach Josh McDaniels playing a strong role in the future Hall of Famer’s free agent pitch.
“They believe they can get the seven-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback for his age-46 season. The prevailing belief around the league is that while Brady retired for 40 days in 2022, he will likely play in 2023 and will likely play out of Tampa.
CBS Sports Jonathan Jones on the Las Vegas Raiders’ pursuit of Tom Brady
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The interest in Brady is not surprising. He is leaving after a disappointing season in 2022 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, looking at other opportunities as he weighs retirement. While quitting football remains on the table, many expect Brady to play into his age-46 season.
Tom Brady’s potential impact on the Las Vegas Raiders
Not only would Brady provide the dependable decision-making, poise and accuracy that McDaniels needs in a fast-paced offense, but he also provides leadership. Even in a locker room with plenty of respected veterans, Brady’s work ethic and his familiarity with McDaniels’ offense are two critical things the Raiders coach wants in 2023.
Signing Brady would also allow Las Vegas to build a much stronger roster this offseason. It could use a top-10 pick on a defensive or offensive player, shoring up a weakness that hurt the team in 2022.
The Raiders are also expected to retain Josh Jacobs, either by re-signing him to a long-term deal or placing the franchise tag on the All-Pro running back. Given his increased usage as a pass-catching threat last season, Jacobs would be even more impactful with Brady under center.
Related: How much it will cost the Las Vegas Raiders to keep Josh Jacobs
Las Vegas could also benefit from Brady’s ability to recruit veteran free agents. After sitting out last season, Hall of Fame tight end Rob Gronkowski is reportedly open to playing with Brady again next season. Everything is set for a free agency period that will have a significant impact on the future of the Raiders.
