The Las Vegas Raiders are shaking things up as the team continues to search for a winning formula. In a swift move, the Raiders have let go of general manager Tom Telesco, just two days after they fired head coach Antonio Pierce. This decision comes on the heels of a disappointing 4-13 season for the Raiders.
In a statement, the organization expressed gratitude for Telesco’s efforts, acknowledging his role in laying down a foundation for the future and wishing him well. This change marks a significant moment as the Raiders will now be one of the few teams to start a new season with a different general manager and head coach for three consecutive years. The Cleveland Browns also had a similar experience back in 2012-14.
Owner Mark Davis had previously indicated that Telesco and Pierce would be evaluated separately, making Telesco’s firing a bit unexpected. He had a successful draft last April, securing an offensive rookie of the year candidate and two new starting offensive linemen. However, the team’s need for a franchise quarterback remained unmet, as Telesco opted for journeyman Gardner Minshew instead of making a bold move for an elite quarterback prospect.
The top six quarterbacks in the draft were already chosen by the time the Raiders picked at 13th, raising questions about how much responsibility falls on Telesco for the team’s quarterback situation. While his drafts show potential, there was a lack of boldness that may have cost the Raiders.
As the Raiders look forward, minority owner Tom Brady is expected to play a more significant role in decision-making. Telesco joined the Raiders after an 11-year stint with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he also served as general manager.
With both a new coach and general manager to find, the Raiders are moving quickly in their search. They have already requested interviews with several candidates, including Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson from the Detroit Lions, and Steve Spagnuolo from the Kansas City Chiefs. Former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh and Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken have also been added to their list of potential hires.
Saleh had a rocky season with the Jets, starting off poorly before being let go, while Monken has found success with the Ravens, leading an impressive offensive unit. As the Raiders embark on this new chapter, fans are hopeful that the right choices will ultimately lead to a stronger team in the future.
