The Las Vegas Raiders faced a significant decision earlier this offseason-the selection of a new head coach. Recognizing the importance of fan sentiment, the team took into account the strong support for Antonio Pierce, who had previously served as the interim head coach. His ability to unify the locker room and bring out the team's best performance on the field resonated with both fans and players, making him the popular choice.
One of the reasons why Antonio Pierce resonated so well with the fan base is his personal connection with the team. Growing up in Compton during the Raiders' time in Los Angeles, he had always dreamt of playing for the Silver and Black. While his dream of playing for the team didn't materialize, he now has the opportunity to coach them, a role that he cherishes.
The Raiders have another similar coach on the staff—a guy that fans will relate to. Cornerbacks coach Ricky Manning Jr. grew up in California.
"I grew up a Raider fan," Manning said recently. "Got my first hand-me-down starter jacket from one of my big cousins, and ever since then, I was a Raider. Obviously, that changed when I got drafted by Carolina, but always had love for the Silver and Black.
"Always had a love for the guys that played here. Nnamdi Asomugha was a good friend of mine. We came out the same year and took some of our recruiting trips together. So, to be back here, to be here in this legendary organization while AP [Antonio Pierce] is doing his thing, it's awesome. It's a blessing for sure."
The Raiders need coaches like that on the staff. Look at what happened with the last regime. Josh McDaniels and Dave Ziegler came in and wanted to try to adopt the New England Patriots' way of doing things and bring that to the Raiders. And, of course, that didn't work. The Raiders franchise has always had its own way of doing things, and other ways most likely will never work.
Manning is also a guy that you can tell absolutely loves football. He couyld talk about it all day, and he's happy while he does it. With guys like Manning being brought in, you don't have to worry about them adopting the Raider way. He already knows the Raider way. Manning also played in the league for six years, so he can connect with the players in the same way that Pierce can. You can already tell that Manning is going to be a coach that the fans love.
