One doesn’t really associate the word “stability” with the Silver and Black. The fact is, the Las Vegas Raiders have been one of the most dysfunctional organizations for the better part of a generation. Whether it’s in the front office or on the field, cohesion has often evaded the Raiders. When Dave Ziegler took over as the new general manager in January of last year, he faced a tall task. He discussed this on a recently released episode of “Bussin’ With The Boys.”
“I think there was a need organizationally for like, to quickly build some stability. So, there was this need for Josh [McDaniels] and I, I think, specifically, to work on creating a lot of relationships. And like investing — again, going back to the relationship piece — but investing personal time and getting to know people. And what we didn’t do when we went in there, is we didn’t go in there and drop a bomb and fire everybody. Because that does happen, right? A new coach and a new GM come by, and they just wipe out everybody.”
Usually, when a new regime takes over an NFL team, they get to work rebuilding it in their image. Ziegler didn’t exactly do that at first. He made sure to sign Maxx Crosby, Darren Waller, and Hunter Renfrow to long-term commitments. Of course, he also traded for superstar wide receiver Davante Adams. Given the release of franchise stalwart Derek Carr, it’s easy to forget what Ziegler has already accomplished. Has it been perfect? Of course not. At the same time, the NFL is far from a perfect business, and difficult decisions have to be made.
In many ways, Ziegler and McDaniels have largely been successful in laying the groundwork for 2023. Several pieces are in place, though the quarterback position is far from settled. The coaching staff hasn’t gone unscathed, however. Defensive line coach Frank Okam was obviously scapegoated, but that will happen after a double-digit losing record.
In terms of the front office and what goes on behind the scenes, Ziegler expanded on that as well. “We tried to really take the time and get to know a lot of the people that had been there. Because a lot of the people had been there for more than four or five years; there are people who have been there for 15, 20 years,” Ziegler explained. We’re glad Ziegler didn’t exactly “clean house,” but the fact is, if Year 2 is a failure, we will all be having a different conversation in 2024.
*Top Photo: Sports Illustrated/Raider Maven