Tom Brady, in his burgeoning role with the Las Vegas Raiders, is reportedly making a daring play that could reshape the NFL landscape. Sources suggest Brady is actively trying to poach San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan to lead the Raiders next season, potentially offering a record-breaking salary to entice him[1].
Shanahan’s name has already been floated in connection with Brady, though in a different context. Back in 2023, Shanahan admitted the 49ers were “serious” about pursuing Tom Brady due to concerns about Brock Purdy’s elbow injury[1][5][8]. “If Tom Brady wanted to come here and start for one year, that’s the only way you’re not starting when you’re healthy this year,” Shanahan had told Purdy[1].
Now, the narrative has flipped. With the Raiders searching for a new head coach after Antonio Pierce and Tom Telesco’s departure[2], Brady appears to be targeting Shanahan as his top choice. This move would be a massive coup for the Raiders, stealing one of the league’s most innovative offensive minds[2].
The report of Brady negotiating to bring Shanahan to the Raiders has sent the NFL world into a frenzy, with fans and analysts weighing in on the potential implications. Could Brady convince Shanahan to leave a Super Bowl-contending team for a rebuilding project in Las Vegas?
Adding fuel to the fire, the 49ers have gone through multiple defensive coordinators since Robert Saleh’s departure in 2021, suggesting potential instability within the coaching staff[3]. Shanahan even admitted he wished he’d given the job to Nick Sorensen after the 2022 season[3].
While it’s unclear if Shanahan’s contract with the 49ers is expiring, the Raiders’ willingness to offer a record-breaking salary, coupled with Brady’s influence, could be enough to sway him[2]. This move would undoubtedly shake up the AFC West, adding another high-profile coach to a division already boasting Sean Payton and Jim Harbaugh[2].