Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback and minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, delivered a scathing critique of the team's recent performance, setting a high bar for improvement in the 2026 season. Brady's comments, made on the "Stick to Football" podcast, were a stark reminder of the team's struggles, which culminated in a 3-14 season in 2025, earning them the top pick in the upcoming draft.
Brady's message was clear: the entire organization, from the players to the management, needs to step up their game. He emphasized that the team's underperformance was a collective failure, stating, 'There’s not one player in the organization, there’s not anybody involved that did the job to the level that it needs to be done at.' This harsh reality check highlights the depth of the issues within the Raiders.
The Raiders' struggles are not new, having missed the playoffs since 2021 and consistently failing to win more than eight games in a season. The team's recent draft moves, including the selection of quarterback Fernando Mendoza and the signing of Kirk Cousins, aim to address the quarterback position and bring more competition. Additionally, the acquisition of players like Tyler Linderbaum, Quay Walker, Kwity Payne, Connor Heyward, and Jalen Nailor suggests a broader effort to strengthen the team.
Brady's expectation of a 'massive improvement' is not just about the players but also about the overall team dynamics and performance. He believes that with more practice and game experience, the team should show significant growth from the start of the season to its end. This optimism is a stark contrast to the team's recent history, which has been marked by inconsistency and underperformance.
The Raiders' upcoming season opener against the Miami Dolphins on September 13, 2026, will be a crucial test of the team's resolve and the effectiveness of the changes made. As Brady noted, 'It starts with me, and it filters down to the rest of the players on the field, and they’ve got to go out there, and ultimately they’ve got to perform at a high level.' The pressure is on for the Raiders to deliver, with Brady's words serving as a constant reminder of the high expectations.
In summary, Tom Brady's comments provide a stark and honest assessment of the Las Vegas Raiders' current state, setting the stage for a pivotal season in 2026. The team's ability to meet these challenges will be a key indicator of their future success and the realization of Brady's vision for improvement.
