The horizon appears promising for the Las Vegas Raiders, with Tom Brady stepping into a new role as a minority owner and gradually becoming more involved with the team. His presence is leaving an unmistakable mark, allowing players to absorb his championship pedigree and helping them climb out of the dark hole that has engulfed the franchise in recent years.
Since acquiring a minority stake, Brady had not made public appearances with the Raiders. That changed this week, as he appeared at the team’s training camp, providing an enormous boost for the players, who view him as an invaluable source of inspiration heading into the new season.
Brady, who also holds a minority stake in the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces alongside Mark Davis, finalized his Raiders investment last fall. This training camp visit marked his first opportunity to interact directly with the roster, and he was welcomed as one of their own inside the franchise’s facility.
The seven-time Super Bowl champion made it clear that he intends to remain closely connected to the team, offering guidance and striving to restore the storied franchise’s former glory. His arrival resonated throughout the locker room, particularly among young players witnessing a living legend up close.
A guy like that had won so much, he knows what it takes to be there… He was already the underdog coming in.
Safety Lonnie Johnson Jr. said of Brady’s visit.
Just a guy that commanded the team, everybody that’s been around him love him… Just being able to see the goat in the game I love… means a lot,
Added linebacker Germaine Pratt.
During the session, Brady observed the entire squad but paid special attention to rookie tight end Brock Bowers and veteran running back Raheem Mostert.
I had one of my best games as a rookie versus Tom, like it was just crazy… I was like ‘Tom, you almost broke my leg during the game.’ I showed him the picture of him kicking me in my leg… We just laughed about it, but it’s crazy how everything works out.
Johnson Jr. recalled.
Offensive lineman Charles Grant also reflected on his own early experiences:
I remember the first day I was in the building… You look on the wall, you see all the legendary figures of the Raiders. I’m just in a place that I can capitalize on that and just keep learning.
Caleb Rogers highlighted how surreal yet normal the NFL can feel:
This business becomes extremely casual… I’m coming off the ball and I’m blocking 33, and then I’m like, oh my gosh, this is Jamal Adams… You start to meet people who you’ve known about, but at the same time, they’re just like everybody else.
Pete Carroll also praised Brady’s involvement.
It’s the extraordinary background that Tom has created and the person that he is… His desire to share what he’s learned over his years in pursuit of the great success that’s out there for us. I’m really thrilled about that… He brings a great element to our club.
The Raiders will open their preseason on Saturday, August 7.
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