Tom Brady is reportedly nearing a “resolution” in talks to purchase an ownership stake in the Las Vegas Raiders.
ESPN reported Tuesday that the three-time NFL MVP quarterback has been talking with Raiders owner Mark Davis for weeks. The two already have a working relationship. Brady has a limited interest in the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, which is primarily owned by Davis.
There is a question of how Brady’s potential limited ownership would affect his role as a Fox Sports announcer. He’s set to begin a 10-year, $375 million contract with the network in 2024. But according to ESPN, Fox has given Brady its blessing to pursue the deal.
It’s not the first time Brady has been tied to the Raiders in a proposed deal. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported last year that UFC President Dana White had talked Brady into joining the Raiders in 2020, and he would also bring tight end Rob Gronkowski with him. But then-Raiders coach Jon Gruden reportedly blocked the deal.
Of course, Brady remains a classic villain in Raiders history, a distinction he earned in a 2002 NFL postseason game when he led the New England Patriots over the Raiders thanks in part to the infamous “Tuck Rule” play.
ESPN reached out to Brady’s agent, the NFL and the Raiders for comment, but no one responded.
NFL fans quickly reacted to the report, with many poking fun at the prospect of Brady as an owner.
My Take: GET HIM IN. He has the winning mentality, he has the connections, he has the reputation and, with all due respect, he knows more about the business than Mark does. I am okay with this. We have nothing to lose.
— Gavin80
(@Gavin_80) May 12, 2023
[ESPN]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.