Everything we had come to expect when Antonio Pierce addressed the media heading into his first training camp as the Las Vegas Raiders head coach was on display. The coach spoke with the media at the onset of training camp and he emphasized phrases like "start fast," "set the tone," and "full throttle," indicating that he intends to waste no time preparing the team for the upcoming season.
When Pierce was asked if he was "looking for a slow build" as the team entered camp, the coach made it clear that he doesn't believe in taking things slow.
“There's nothing slow about what we're doing we're hitting the field running," Pierce said.
This should resonate with Raiders fans. Despite it being his first full season as a head coach, Pierce seems at ease and prepared for the task.
Pierce also opened up about his expectations for camp.
“Bonding, competition physicality and creating the Raider identity and then really putting our stamp on what we want to have our play style look like both on offense, defense and special teams I think that it's safe to say that physicality is something that you want to hang your hat on and be you know part of your identity,” he said.
Pierce has emphasized the significance of acquiring players and coaches who embody the "Raider Identity" multiple times this offseason.
He provided insight into the ongoing quarterback battle between Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew as they head into camp.
“The quarterback race is where it was when we left spring, they’re even," Pierce said. "It's different when we get the pads on, you get a better feel for it overall and then also guys just getting into the system right away in the spring, learning it. There could be some days where Aidan looked better, some days Gardner, some days they both look bad and some days they both look good. To be honest I think it'll take it'll take its course”
For the Raiders' offense, it would be beneficial to establish a clear starting quarterback sooner rather than later. Training camp should help O’Connell or Minshew set themselves apart.
Pierce enters his first training camp as head coach with questions surrounding the team, but he seems more than ready to work and provide answers to those questions. Pierce is a natural leader, his confidence is infectious and I believe the Raiders are fortunate to have him as the leader of this team.