Tom Brady has only just begun his journey as a part-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, but he’s already making serious waves. His first major move? Putting the brakes on the team signing one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in free agency.
The seven-time Super Bowl champion and future Hall of Famer isn’t just standing on the sidelines. According to The Athletic’s Michael Silver, Brady actively intervened in internal discussions and rejected the idea of signing veteran quarterback Sam Darnold, despite the team showing interest.
Brady Pulls Rank Early in Vegas
After retiring in 2023 and signing a massive broadcasting deal with FOX Sports, many thought Brady would spend his post-playing days in the booth. But the GOAT had other plans.
Earlier this year, Brady officially became a minority owner of the Raiders—joining Mark Davis in hopes of reviving a franchise that has been stuck in mediocrity. From the moment he stepped into the ownership suite, it was clear he wasn’t just a figurehead.
And now we know: Brady isn’t afraid to flex his influence.
Sam Darnold? Not on Brady’s Watch
With the Raiders in desperate need of a quarterback after parting ways with Jimmy Garoppolo and failing to land a big name in the draft, free agency was a key focus. One of the top available options? Sam Darnold, coming off a solid showing as a backup with the Minnesota Vikings.
Reports suggested the Raiders had internal support to pursue Darnold—until Brady stepped in.
“Minority owner Tom Brady… was not in favor of that approach,” Silver reported, citing a source familiar with team discussions.
The implication is clear: Brady didn’t believe Darnold had what it takes to lead a team to success — and his voice held enough weight to influence the final call.
Raiders Roll with Geno Smith Instead
With Darnold off the table, the Raiders pivoted to Geno Smith, who was recently let go by the Seattle Seahawks. Smith, the 2022 Comeback Player of the Year, has shown flashes of brilliance but also bouts of inconsistency.
He’ll now compete for the starting job in Vegas — with Brady watching closely.
Genius Move or First Big Misstep?
It’s far too early to judge Brady’s executive chops, but this decision will be under the microscope. If Geno Smith flames out and Darnold thrives elsewhere, critics will be quick to blame Brady for meddling in football operations.
Then again, if Smith turns into a steady starter and leads the Raiders to relevance, this could be seen as the first sign that Brady’s greatness extends beyond the field.
Let’s not forget — this is a guy who turned a sixth-round pick into the greatest career in NFL history. Maybe he sees things the rest of us don’t.
What This Means for the Raiders in 2025
Brady’s growing role signals a culture shift in Las Vegas. This isn’t just a team owned by a billionaire and run by a coach anymore. With NFL royalty in the building, expectations are going to rise — and so will the pressure.
Pete Carroll, now head coach, will be tasked with bringing stability to the team’s offense. And if Brady is going to continue having influence on roster decisions, you can bet every QB move moving forward will be under the microscope.
Bottom Line: Brady Isn’t Just Here for the Photoshoots
Tom Brady made a statement without ever stepping on the field. He’s here to win — and he’s not afraid to make bold, controversial calls to help the Raiders get there.
Will it pay off? Only the 2025 season will tell.
