The Las Vegas Raiders are in the middle of a pivotal moment - one that could define the next decade of football in the desert. With the No. 1 overall pick in April’s NFL Draft and a head coaching vacancy to fill, the organization’s top decision-makers descended on Miami this week to tackle both fronts head-on.
And right in the middle of it all? Tom Brady.
Yes, that Tom Brady. Now a minority owner in the Raiders organization, Brady made the trip to South Florida alongside newly appointed general manager Jon Spytek. Their destination: the College Football Playoff National Championship at Hard Rock Stadium - a game that doubled as both a scouting opportunity and a strategic meeting ground.
The spotlight in Miami wasn’t just on the game - it was on Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner and widely projected No. 1 overall pick. Mendoza has been the talk of the draft for months, and with the Raiders holding that top selection, his performance Monday night was more than just must-see TV - it was a potential preview of the franchise’s future.
According to reports, the Raiders’ presence in Miami was anything but coincidental. Several head coaching candidates were already in town, giving the front office a chance to conduct in-person interviews while also evaluating the player who could become the new face of the franchise. It’s a rare convergence of draft scouting and coaching interviews - and the Raiders are making the most of it.
Former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel met with team officials Monday morning. Known for his creative offensive mind and modern approach to game planning, McDaniel would bring a sharp, quarterback-friendly system - something that would pair intriguingly with a young signal-caller like Mendoza.
Later that evening, Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero arrived in Miami and is scheduled to interview Tuesday. Evero, a rising star on the defensive side, has been praised for his ability to adapt and connect with players - a valuable trait for a team in transition.
Also in the mix is Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, who is expected to meet with the Raiders in South Beach. Minter’s work with the Chargers defense has drawn attention, especially for his ability to scheme pressure and disguise coverage - a skill set that could help reshape a Raiders unit that’s struggled for consistency.
One name that’s now off the board is Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. He had been scheduled to interview with Las Vegas on Wednesday, but the Dolphins are finalizing a deal to bring him in as their next head coach. The Raiders have also expressed interest in Broncos passing game coordinator Davis Webb, though his current postseason obligations will delay any in-person meetings for now.
What’s becoming clear is how closely the coaching hire and quarterback decision are tied together. Brady’s involvement isn’t just ceremonial - his presence in Miami signals how seriously the Raiders are considering the long-term alignment between their next head coach and their potential franchise quarterback. It’s not just about picking the right player or the right coach - it’s about building a vision, and making sure every piece fits.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. With the top pick in hand and a clean slate at head coach, the Raiders have a rare opportunity to reset their trajectory. And if Monday night in Miami is any indication, they’re not wasting any time.