It is time to play NFL General Manager.
As a big Madden video-game and dynasty fantasy player, the best part is building a winning roster.
Every off-season provides each franchise an opportunity to start fresh or build on the previous success.
This year is very much the former for the Las Vegas Raiders.
So, in this new series of articles, we will look at what the Raiders can do to try and build a competitive roster.
‘Coaches gotta coach’
Coaching is not just scheme or motivating, but is about elevating players and putting them in positions to succeed. Think Matt LaFleur and his ability to win with Malik Willis.
Now, there are factors which could keep Antonio Pierce in a job.
These range from a lack of a quality at quarterback to playing the Kansas City Chiefs close, and he does not appear to have lost the locker room.
But this is my rebuild, so for this purpose, Pierce is out.
Who is out there?
Despite only 32 head coaching roles, six to eight teams are on the lookout every year for someone to guide them.
Whether it be a fresh-faced, exciting young co-ordinator looking for their first opportunity or a grizzled veteran looking to make a return to the big chair.
Let us take a look at some of the potential names to lead the Silver and Black next year.
This is not an extensive list and simply one or two names I would like to at-least be interviewed.
Offense or Defense
Over the last decade, the league has swung towards offense being viewed as more important and more exciting.
But defense still wins championships. Eight of the last 10 Super Bowl winners have had a top-10 defense in terms of points per game.
This is why I would be looking at Mike Vrabel as a candidate for the job.
A good defensive coach, who led the Tennessee Titans to multiple winning seasons and a number one seed with Ryan Tannehill under centre.
This is the type of coach who has a track record or success and over-achieving despite the level of talent on the roster.
However, Vrabel may not be the first choice of many so where else can we go?
Enter Joe Brady. Since his appointment as the offensive coordinator at the Buffalo Bills, Josh Allen has been on a another level.
Playing at an MVP level and an offense that looks frightening – despite the overhaul and change in philosophy – is a big feather in the cap of Brady.
This would be a risk for both parties, but pairing Brady with an exciting, young quarterback is something I want to see in Las Vegas.
So welcome to Las Vegas, Joe Brady.
