Former NFL general manager Michael Lombardi highlighted Tom Brady’s crucial role in the Raiders’ pursuit of Ben Johnson. Brady’s championship status could send the Lions’ offensive coordinator to 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 powerful units as their coordinator.
Lombardi shared insights on 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 who performed at the highest level of his profession, the greatest quarterback, the goat. And you get him in there and you’re in a meeting with him, and he knows what it takes to win.”
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Lombardi highlighted Brady’s expertise in team building.
“I’ve talked to Tom many times in the past about team building, about how to scout inside out. I think Tom will do a great job,” he said.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed that those “involved with the job” believe Ben Johnson is the frontrunner to land the position with the Raiders.
Ben Johnson could reshape the future of the Raiders
The coaching search takes on added weight after Las Vegas’ 4-13 season led to the firing of head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco. Pro Football Talk reports that the Raiders have prepared a “major” contract offer for Johnson, although they must still meet the in-person interview requirements of the Rooney Rule.
Radio host Dan Patrick noted that Brady’s presence has increased the Raiders’ appeal to Johnson. The Lions coordinator previously declined head coaching opportunities but appears intrigued by working with the NFL legend.
The Raiders are ranked sixth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. This could allow Johnson and Brady to select their quarterback from prospects like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward.
Johnson cannot accept any offer until Detroit’s playoffs are complete. The Lions host Washington in Saturday’s divisional round, with Brady calling the game for Fox. This timing could be symbolic: Brady could witness Johnson’s final game with Detroit before potentially welcoming him to Las Vegas.
Edited by Krutik Jain