Former NFL general manager Michael Lombardi highlighted Tom Brady’s pivotal role in the Raiders’ pursuit of Ben Johnson. Brady’s championship pedigree could sway the Lions’ offensive coordinator toward Las Vegas.
Lombardi brings 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 coordinator.
Lombardi shared insights into 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 definitely a step in the right direction,” Lombardi said. “I mean, you get a guy who understands what it takes to win, a former player reached at the highest level of his profession, the greatest quarterback, the GOAT him, and he knows what he it takes to win.”
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Lombardi highlighted Brady’s team-building expertise.
“I’ve talked to Tom many times in the past about building teams, about how to research backwards. I think Tom is going to do very well,” he said.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network revealed that “job associates” believe Ben Johnson is the favorite to land the job with the Raiders.
Ben Johnson could reshape the Raiders’ future
The coaching search carries added weight after Las Vegas’ 4-13 season led to the coaching of head coach Antonio Pierce and GM Tom Telesco. Pro Football Talk reports that the Raiders have prepared a “massive” contract offer for Johnson, although they still need to satisfy the in-person interview requirements of the Rooney Rule.
Radio host Dan Patrick noted that Brady’s presence spurred the Raiders’ call on Johnson. The Lions coordinator has previously turned down head coaching opportunities, but seems intrigued by working with the NFL legend.
The Raiders hold the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This could allow Johnson and Brady to select their quarterback in prospects like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward.
Johnson cannot accept any offers until after Detroit’s playoff run. The Lions host Washington in Saturday’s divisional round, with Brady calling the game for Fox. This timing could prove symbolic – Brady could attend Johnson’s final game with Detroit before Potentially welcoming him to Las Vegas.
Edited by Krutik Jain
