As the Las Vegas Raiders’ head-coaching search begins this week, the top two contenders appear to be interim coach Antonio Pierce and Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Let’s examine the two candidates’ cases:
Pros of Pierce:
He knows the roster:
Pierce has been with the Raiders for two years, including nine games as head coach. He has a thorough understanding of the roster and what needs to be done to better moving forward. If he obtains the job, he will have a significant advantage over Harbaugh and any other outside candidates.
Players desire him.
Many Raiders players, including stars Maxx Crosby and Davante Adams, have backed Pierce. The players adore him. They respect his leadership and the stability Pierce would provide. Of course, owner Mark Davis respect the roster’s thoughts, but they are unlikely to be the most important factor in his choice. In the end, players adjust to any decision, but having the support of the team doesn’t damage Pierce’s chances.
He wants the job.
Pierce reportedly stated that he “was born” to be the Raiders coach because he grew up in nearby Compton while the franchise was in Los Angeles. He embodies the organization and desperately wants this job. Harbaugh, on the other hand, is constantly on the lookout for new opportunities. Pierce would be all-in on being a Raider.
He would be cheaper:
This is for Mark Davis, but employing Pierce would most certainly be less expensive than bringing in Harbaugh. The Michigan coach may face a bidding war with many teams, including AFC West opponent Los Angeles Chargers. As a result, his contract would most likely be at or near the top of the coaching pay scale. Pierce would not command a typical compensation amount. This may appeal to an owner who is still paying off old coaches.
Pros of Harbaugh:
Proven Winner:
Say what you want about Harbaugh; he can win. He has won at each stop. He certainly understands what he is doing on the sidelines. That’s why he’s so high demand.
NFL Experience:
Harbaugh was the San Francisco 49ers’ head coach from 2011 to 2014. He also served as the Raiders’ quarterback coach from 2002 to 2003. Yes, ten years is a long time away from the NFL. Things change, and he’s already witnessed Jon Gruden struggle with the Raiders following a lengthy layoff. But Harbaugh has NFL experience.
He recognizes quarterbacks:
The Raiders’ biggest on-field need in 2024 will be at quarterback. Harbaugh, a former NFL quarterback, understands the job well and should be able to coach any new Las Vegas quarterback. It doesn’t hurt that he would be coming from the college levels, and he knows several of the top college prospects at the position.
Raiders coaching search: Advantages and disadvantages of hiring Jim Harbaugh
He’s a large fish!
Davis is always looking for a big name. He already tried for Harbaugh. He believed Gruden and Josh McDaniels were splash hires, and it’s widely assumed in league circles that he believes a big name should be in Las Vegas. Harbaugh would likely qualify as a major name, giving Davis the relevance he craves.
Conclusion:
In the end, Harbaugh is the spectacular hiring Davis wants, but Pierce could be just what the roster needs. It’s definitely an intriguing situation.
