Tom Brady, the NFL legend and part-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, is showing his deep loyalty to his alma mater, the University of Michigan, with a bold move. The Raiders have signed Michael Barrett, the winningest player in Michigan football history, to a new deal, a decision that highlights Brady’s influence and his commitment to bringing Wolverine talent to the team.
Barrett, a former linebacker who racked up an impressive 61 wins during his college career, joins a Raiders roster that’s looking to rebuild, and Brady’s role in this choice underscores his trust in the Michigan pipeline.
Barrett’s journey to Las Vegas is a story of resilience. At Michigan, he played multiple positions, earning three Big Ten rings and a 2023 National Championship. His 61 victories make him the most successful player in the program’s storied history, which boasts over 1,000 wins since 1879.
Drafted in the seventh round by the Carolina Panthers in 2024, Barrett has bounced between teams-Panthers, Seahawks, Browns, and Packers-struggling to find his NFL footing. Yet, his leadership and tenacity, traits honed at Michigan, caught Brady’s eye. With Tom Brady, another Michigan alum and a key figure in Raiders’ personnel decisions, pushing for this signing, it’s clear he sees potential in Barrett’s intangibles, even if NFL stardom remains uncertain.
Brady gives Michael Barrett a big shot
Brady’s involvement goes beyond nostalgia. As a minority owner, he’s been hands-on, advising owner Mark Davis on staff and player moves. His connection with Barrett echoes his own Michigan days, where he played before becoming the NFL’s all-time great quarterback. This signing aligns with Brady’s vision of building a competitive Raiders team, leveraging his college network.
The presence of fellow Wolverine Charles Woodson, a Hall of Famer with Raiders ties, adds to the Michigan flavor, though Woodson now works with the Cleveland Browns. Brady’s bet on Barrett suggests he believes the linebacker’s work ethic-described as 110% dedication-could shine in training camp, even if a coaching or front-office role might be his long-term fit.
For Michigan fans, this is a proud moment, seeing their winningest player get another shot, backed by a hometown hero like Brady. The Raiders, with a challenging 2025 schedule and a roster needing depth, could benefit from Barrett’s leadership, even if his on-field impact is limited. This move reflects Brady’s faith in Michigan’s legacy, turning a personal connection into a strategic play. As Barrett steps onto the field in Las Vegas, all eyes will be on whether this Michigan reunion can spark a turnaround for the Silver and Black.
Read the full article here
