The Las Vegas Raiders announced that they have decided to part ways with head coach Joshua Thomas McDaniels and general manager David Ziegler on Tuesday, October 31, 2023.
The unexpected move came after a series of disappointing performances and mounting pressure from the franchise’s stakeholders, including owner Mark Davis. The Raiders had expectations for the 2023 season but their struggles on the field prompted drastic action from the team’s owner.
The Las Vegas Raiders released an official statement, saying, “The Las Vegas Raiders have relieved Josh Mcdaniels and David Ziegler of their duties as head coach and general manager.
“After much thought about what the Raiders need to move forward, I have decided to part ways with Josh and Dave. I want to thank them both for their hard work and wish them and their families nothing but the best,” said Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis.
The Las Vegas Raiders have named Champ Kelly as the interim general manager. Kelly in his second season as the assistant general manager with the Raiders. Prior to joining the Raiders, Kelly spent seven seasons in personnel and scouting with the Chicago Bears and eight seasons with the Denver Broncos. In his NFL career, his teams have won five division titles, one conference championship, appeared in super bowl XLVIII, and to date, players have earned a combined 58 pro bowl nominations and six Hall of Fame enshrinement.
The Las Vegas Raiders are committed to undergo a comprehensive search for a general manager once the season is complete.
The Las Vegas Raiders have also named Antonio Pierce as the Interim Head Coach. Pierce is in his second season as linebackers coach with the Las Vegas Raiders, has seven years of coaching experience , and nine years of NFL playing experience. Before joining the Raiders, Pierce spent five seasons at Arizona State serving as linebackers coach before adding the titles of associate head coach and defensive coordinator.
The Las Vegas Raiders are committed to undergo a comprehensive search for a head coach once the season is complete.”
Mcdaniels and Ziegler, who both had been with the Raiders since 2022 and had signed six-year contracts, failed to lead the team to the playoffs in recent years. Their records during both the 2022 and 2023 season have been disappointing, which further fueled the discontent among Football fans.
As the Raiders embark on a new era, the decisions made by the franchise’s leadership will be closely scrutinized. In the coming weeks, the Las Vegas Raiders will undoubtedly face numerous challenges as they look to rebuild their coaching staff and make a fresh start.
