Former NFL general manager Michael Lombardi emphasized Tom Brady’s key role in the Raiders’ acquisition of Ben Johnson. Brady’s championship pedigree could sway the Lions’ offensive coordinator heading to Las Vegas.
Lombardi brings decades of NFL front office experience, and Brady recently joined the Raiders as a minority owner. As coordinator, Johnson transformed Detroit’s offense into one of the most potent units in the NFL.
Lombardi shared insight into Brady’s influence on the Raiders’ coaching search during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Thursday.
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“I think this is certainly a step in the right direction,” Lombardi said. “So you have a guy who understands what it takes to win, a former player who accomplished at the highest level of his profession, a great quarterback, a goat, and you put him in there and sit him in the meetings. “He knows what it takes to win.”
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Lombardi emphasized Brady’s team-building expertise.
“I’ve talked to Tom a lot over the years about team building and inside-out scouting, and I think he’ll do a great job,” he said.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed that “people in the business” believe Ben Johnson is the top candidate to win the position with the Raiders.
Ben Johnson could change the future of the Raiders
The coaching search has become even more important following the firing of head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco after Las Vegas’ 4-13 season. Pro Football Talk reports that the Raiders have prepared a “massive” contract offer for Johnson, but he still must meet the Rooney Rule’s in-person interview requirements.
Radio host Dan Patrick noted that Brady’s presence increased the Raiders’ appeal to Johnson. The Lions coordinator had previously turned down head coaching opportunities, but appears to be interested in working with the NFL legend.
The Raiders hold the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This could allow Johnson and Brady to select a QB from among prospects like Shedre Sanders or Cam Ward.
Johnson cannot accept any offers until Detroit’s playoff run is over. The Lions host Washington in Saturday’s regional round, and Brady was called up for the game in place of Fox. The timing could be symbolic. Brady may see one final game against Detroit before welcoming Johnson to Las Vegas.
Edited by Kurtik Jain
