(Henderson) Tom Brady began his tenure as minority shareholder of the Las Vegas Raiders on Wednesday.
Posted at 9:26 p.m.
W.g. Ramirez
Associated Press
Raiders majority owner Mark Davis sat on a bench outside the team’s facility, looking cheerful for someone whose team appears to be struggling after a 2-4 start to the season , a day after trading Davante Adams, one of the best receivers in the league.
“Hey guys,” Davis said, grinning from ear to ear as reporters filed into the press room.
PHOTO DAVID BECKER, ARCHIVES ASSOCIATED PRESS
Raiders majority owner Mark Davis
Davis was eagerly awaiting Brady’s arrival, as was a small group of employees inside the facility.
The presence of Brady, who used a wireless microphone to share a few words, seemed to bring a breath of fresh air.
“I have absolute respect for Tom Brady,” Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce said. He’s a pro among pros, he’s a hard worker.
“I know we look at the end result and we see the championships and the guy that everyone calls ‘GOAT,’ but he worked hard. He worked hard for this opportunity to be a minority owner with the Raiders.
“And I think it’s a plus when you can have someone who has worked so hard to be successful and hasn’t had everything in their mouth. »
Although Adams’ departure was still a topic of conversation in the locker room, many Raiders players were excited to know Brady was in attendance.
Quarterback Aidan O’Connell, who took over the offense two weeks ago, said he looks forward to learning from the seven-time Super Bowl champion and would like to talk with him.
“I know he’s pretty busy, but whenever he has time, I’ll definitely ask him for his advice,” O’Connell said. She’s obviously a great person to have on your side.
“He’s someone who’s been doing this for so long at the highest level, so you can learn a lot just by listening to what he says. Even his simple presence is great for us. »
Defensive captain Maxx Crosby said he hopes Brady’s competitive nature spreads throughout the locker room.
“He’s the ultimate competitor,” Crosby said. Having him on our side, I think it adds value and a winning spirit to our culture. »