A new report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero suggests that the iconic quarterback-coach duo of Tom Brady and Bill Belichick might reunite, this time with the Las Vegas Raiders. Pelissero revealed that Brady, who is now a minority owner of the Raiders, has reportedly spoken with Belichick about the potential of coming to work for him once again.
Pelissero shared the details of the conversation between the two, saying, “Multiple NFL teams have inquired about whether legendary coach Bill Belichick would reconsider his move to college football — including the Las Vegas Raiders, whose new minority owner Tom Brady spoke recently with his old coach about what it would take to make a reunion happen in Las Vegas, per sources."
The idea of the duo reuniting comes after the Raiders’ decision to fire head coach Antonio Pierce, who ended his first season as a full-time coach with a disappointing 4-13 record. Brady, who led the New England Patriots to six Super Bowl victories under Belichick’s coaching, is reportedly in favor of bringing his former coach to the Raiders. Pelissero added that Brady believes Belichick’s expertise is precisely what the Raiders need to establish a "sustainable winning program" in Las Vegas.
The Raiders’ Head Coach Search
With Pierce’s exit and the Raiders’ head coach position now open, Brady has a significant role in determining who will fill the vacancy. Given his close connection with Belichick and his influence within the Raiders organization, many see Belichick as a strong candidate for the job. Belichick served as Brady’s coach for two decades with the Patriots, making the prospect of a reunion compelling.
The College Football Complication
However, there is a major complication in the potential reunion: Belichick was hired as the head coach for North Carolina just last month. Despite never coaching a college game before, he was eager to take on the challenge after a year spent doing media work.
Moreover, Belichick has a $10 million buyout clause in his contract if he were to leave North Carolina before June 1, 2025. His current contract guarantees him $30 million over the next three years, though this would be voided if he’s bought out.
Other Teams Interested in Belichick
While the Raiders remain a strong possibility, Pelissero noted that at least one other NFL team has checked in on Belichick’s situation. With New England no longer an option for the veteran coach, other teams with coaching vacancies — such as the Chicago Bears, New York Jets, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New Orleans Saints — could be in the mix.
Belichick did explore options last year after parting ways with the Patriots, including an interview with the Atlanta Falcons, though the position was ultimately filled by Raheem Morris.
Belichick’s 2024 Career
After his time with the Patriots came to an end, Belichick spent the entirety of 2024 working in various media roles, including TV, radio, and podcast appearances. The Raiders’ offer could potentially bring him back to the NFL, where his legendary career as a coach continues to leave a significant mark.
With the Las Vegas Raiders’ coaching vacancy open, all eyes are on whether this reunion of the NFL’s most successful quarterback-coach duo will come to fruition.