The Las Vegas Raiders clinched their third victory of the season on Sunday, edging out the Jacksonville Jaguars 19-14.
While wins typically spark celebration in the NFL, many Raiders fans were left frustrated, concerned about how this result impacts the team’s future draft positioning.
The Raiders, still in search of a franchise quarterback following Derek Carr’s departure, had been eyeing a prime spot in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Prior to Sunday’s game, they were positioned for a potential top-two pick. However, this Week 16 win dropped them out of the top five, complicating their path to securing a cornerstone quarterback for the team’s rebuild.
Fan discontent prompted reporters to press head coach Antonio Pierce for his thoughts on the backlash.
In his post-game press conference, Pierce delivered a pointed response: “Talk to Tom Telesco.”
The remark appeared to deflect blame toward general manager Tom Telesco, hinting at tensions within the organization.
Pierce, who has consistently emphasized his commitment to winning regardless of the team’s record, doubled down on his approach.
Telesco, in his inaugural year as general manager, has faced mounting criticism for the Raiders’ struggles this season.
From failing to secure a long-term quarterback to trading away former superstar receiver Davante Adams, Telesco’s moves have fueled discontent among the fan base.
Now, with the team seemingly at odds over priorities – winning now versus rebuilding through the draft – both Pierce and Telesco find themselves under scrutiny.
It’s no secret that Pierce is on the hot seat. There are rumblings that new minority owner Tom Brady has his eyes set on his former Patriots teammate Mike Vrabel to take over the coaching reigns in Vegas.
Regardless of the likely tension, the fact of the matter is Pierce and the players don’t care about draft positioning.
It’s a talking-point every year, but the whole topic of “tanking” is largely for the fans (and sometimes the front office).
However, when it comes to coaches (especially those on the hot seat), and the actual players, they’re all trying to win every single game they play. And that’s exactly what Pierce and the Raiders did yesterday against Jacksonville.
What are your thoughts on the apparent friction between Pierce and the front office?
How should Raiders fans feel about the team winning yesterday and hurting their draft position by doing so???
