Raiders Welcome Tom Brady and Richard Seymour as Minority Owners

Share News

NFL News: Raiders Welcome Tom Brady and Richard Seymour as Minority Owners

The NFL has approved the sale of a minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders, welcoming former quarterback Tom Brady, former defensive lineman Richard Seymour, and businessman Tom Wagner as part-owners.

NFL Futures may be impacted by this development as the Raiders look to capitalize on the football expertise of Brady and Seymour. Brady and Wagner each acquired roughly 5% of the franchise, while Seymour obtained 0.5%.

Brady and Seymour’s Involvement in the Raiders

Brady’s and Seymour’s entry into the Raiders organization is seen as more than just a financial investment. Both bring significant football experience to the table, with Seymour having played for the Raiders from 2009 to 2012 and Brady forming a deep relationship with the franchise’s owner, Mark Davis, over the last few years. 

Davis emphasized that the move wasn’t solely about receiving a large sum of money, but rather about integrating valuable football knowledge into the franchise.

Seymour’s connection with the Raiders goes back to his time with the team under both the late Al Davis and current owner Mark Davis. His relationship with the franchise has endured, and he even played a role in the recent hiring of general manager Tom Telesco and head coach Antonio Pierce. 

As for Brady, while he can’t take on an official role beyond “limited partner” due to NFL rules, he’s eager to contribute to the organization’s success, with Davis hinting that Brady could have a role in selecting and mentoring a future quarterback.

The Raiders’ Ongoing Changes

The addition of these minority owners comes on the same day that the Raiders traded star receiver Davante Adams to the New York Jets for a conditional third-round draft pick. This trade marks a significant shift for the team, which is currently 2-4 and in the midst of a transition under first-year head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco.

The team hasn’t won a playoff game since 2002, and this season hasn’t shown signs of breaking that streak. However, Davis’ move to bring Brady and Seymour into the fold is viewed as part of a long-term strategy to improve the football operations and potentially reshape the future of the franchise.

Brady’s Role Moving Forward

Although Brady can’t actively participate in team operations or hold an official position, his involvement with the Raiders is expected to grow over time. He’s expressed a desire to contribute in any way he can to help the team win and improve. 

While NFL rules restrict him from certain activities, such as attending practices or meetings with coaches, Brady’s vast football knowledge could still play a role in shaping the Raiders’ future.

Brady’s relationship with Mark Davis dates back to when the Raiders considered signing him as a free agent in 2020, before the team decided to pass. Since then, Brady and Davis have stayed in touch, with Davis always envisioning a future where Brady would join the organization. Now, that vision has come to fruition.

The Future of Raiders Ownership

While Mark Davis remains the controlling owner of the Raiders, Brady, Seymour, and Wagner’s minority ownership could influence the team’s future. As NFL rules allow Davis to sell nearly all his stakes while maintaining control, there is no immediate shift in power. However, the groundwork is being laid for future ownership possibilities, especially as Davis has no immediate family heirs to inherit the franchise.