The Las Vegas Raiders shocked the NFL world this offseason by parting ways with head coach Antonio Pierce after just one complete season at the helm.
Pierce had initially taken over as interim coach in 2023 before earning the permanent position, arriving with bold promises of instilling discipline and transforming the team’s culture.
However, those ambitious plans quickly crumbled as the Raiders stumbled to a disappointing 4-13 record while going winless in the AFC West for the first time since 2006.
The season’s failures ultimately sealed Pierce’s fate despite maintaining strong relationships with his players.
During a recent appearance on Bussin’ with the Boys, tight end Brock Bowers was asked when he first sensed Pierce might be heading toward the chopping block.
“I don’t know, it’s kinda hard to say because all the guys seemed to like him. I thought he was a good coach,” Bowers said.
Brock Bowers opens up about how the Raiders fired Antonio Pierce pic.twitter.com/2y7W5DOYry
— Bussin’ With The Boys (@BussinWTB) July 17, 2025
Pierce indeed had the locker room’s full support throughout his tenure, but his time with the Raiders unraveled due to inconsistent offensive performance, coaching staff missteps, and growing internal tension.
He finished with a 9-17 overall record as a head coach, earning respect from players but failing to convince ownership, including new stakeholder Tom Brady, that he represented the long-term solution.
Moreover, his rocky handling of star receiver Davante Adams, who demanded a trade just weeks into the season, only amplified the disconnect within the organization.
Bowers managed to deliver an impressive rookie campaign despite the chaotic atmosphere surrounding the franchise.
In response to the organizational upheaval, the Raiders made significant offseason moves by hiring veteran coach Pete Carroll and acquiring quarterback Geno Smith from Seattle.
After spending three years under Kirby Smart at Georgia, Bowers understands the impact an experienced coach can provide.
As Las Vegas prepares for another challenging AFC West campaign, both Bowers and the franchise believe Carroll can deliver the steady leadership they desperately need.
