This marks the beginning of a new era at 1475 Raiders Way in Henderson, Nevada. Antonio Pierce and Tom Telesco were officially introduced as the Malosos’ head coach and general manager, respectively.
While Pierce will be new in the 2024 campaign, Telesco is the first general manager in the franchise’s history to take the position with prior experience, having served as Cargadores’ general manager for 11 seasons from 2013 to 2023.
“Esta es una franquicia icónica con una gran historia, y obviamente, todo comienza con el legado de Al Davis” , Telesco told the press. “I am ecstatic to be here, but I am also aware that this job entails significant responsibility. Mark Davis and the leadership team have put their trust in me for this, and I couldn’t be happier to be a part of it.”
Antonio Pierce had a successful career as a professional football player, winning a Super Bowl and being named captain of his team. He was also elected to the Professional Football Hall of Fame after joining the league as an undrafted free agent. He will be in his third year as a linebacker coach in the NFL, joining Las Vegas in 2022, continuing in 2023, and taking on the role of interim coach on week 9 of that season. The interim tag has been removed, and he is now one of the 32 head coaches who will lead an NFL team in the regular season.
“Lo dije desde la primera vez que hablé frente a todos el 1 de noviembre, me siento honrado y estoy emocionado” , according to Pierce. This team’s acceptance and demonstration of the challenge on the field is a recognition of our organization, coaches, and players. It was not easy. Many people likely did not anticipate what would happen from night to morning. However, when you have good people in the building, when you have faith, trust, and responsibility, you will gain respect.
You do it the ‘Raider Way’. We understand that no one is bigger than the escudo, and that you judge based on much more than just your name. We have many people who are affected by victories and defeats. We understand it. “We don’t take it lightly.”
The relationship between general manager and head coach is unique, with each having their own responsibilities and the success of the team working hand in hand.
During his time with the Cargadores, the executive committee led by Tom Telesco selected six players from the draft, who were then voted on by the Professionals. In 2022, a roster was created through drafts, trades, and free agency that included eight players who had previously been selected for the Pro Bowl.
Telesco expressed excitement in collaborating with A.P. (Antonio Pierce) here.
I was able to see it throughout my interview. In American football, it’s important for a coach to have a strong sense of leadership, where the team adopts the coach’s identity. This is what we’ll be doing here. We’ll build around that. I’m thrilled to start this association and couldn’t be more excited to be a Raider.
With two of the most important positions on an officially occupied team, now is the time for Antonio Pierce and Tom Telesco to begin the work required to plan the steps that the black and white team needs to take, including the formation of the coaching staff, the manner in which the player roster will be established through the free agency that begins on March 13th. Despite the lack of regular season games until September, the Malosos are already preparing for the 65th season in franchise history.
