Ian Rapoport Reports: Tom Brady Officially Becomes Part-Owner of the Raiders

On October 2024, a major NFL milestone was announced by prominent NFL insider Ian Rapoport, known to many fans as @RapSheet on social media. Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback, has now been officially approved by NFL owners as a limited partner of the Las Vegas Raiders. This news signifies the formal conclusion of Brady’s career as a player, marking a historic moment in his transition from NFL superstar to NFL owner. With a 5% stake already approved and a total purchase of 10% planned, Brady’s involvement in the franchise sets a precedent for former players looking to transition into team ownership.

Tom Brady’s Transition from Player to Owner

Tom Brady’s journey to becoming a limited partner in the Raiders started long before the NFL’s official approval. His decision to retire (for the second time) in February 2023 came after a legendary career that spanned over two decades, during which he achieved unparalleled success. Winning seven Super Bowl titles, five Super Bowl MVPs, and breaking nearly every major quarterback record, Brady’s legacy was already firmly cemented. His move to ownership signals a new chapter.

Brady’s decision to join the Raiders as a part-owner wasn’t just a financial investment. It’s a signal of his desire to remain deeply connected to the sport. The NFL has been his life’s work, and now, rather than stepping away, he is simply shifting roles. By taking on this new challenge as part of the Raiders’ ownership group, Brady’s presence in the league will continue to be felt.

The Raiders organization, under the ownership of Mark Davis, had been in discussions with Brady for months. With the official approval by NFL owners, Brady can now step into the role of team partner and offer his unique perspective on how to build a championship-caliber team—something he knows quite a bit about.

The Impact of Brady’s Ownership on the Raiders

Having Tom Brady as a part-owner of the Raiders brings more than just prestige. His expertise, experience, and competitive nature will undoubtedly influence the franchise’s future decisions. Brady’s extensive knowledge of the game, especially the quarterback position, could be invaluable in shaping the Raiders’ player development and team strategy. His insight could be particularly beneficial to head coach Josh McDaniels, with whom Brady worked closely during their time together in New England.

Brady’s involvement is also expected to attract even more attention to the franchise. The Raiders, one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, moved to Las Vegas in 2020 and are still building their brand in the city. Brady’s name adds star power and legitimacy to their efforts, further increasing the franchise’s visibility and appeal.

Moreover, as someone who has built a successful personal brand off the field, Brady’s business acumen could be advantageous for the Raiders in terms of marketing, fan engagement, and partnerships. His appeal extends far beyond just football fans; Brady is a global icon, and his presence in the ownership group could lead to increased sponsorship opportunities and overall revenue growth for the franchise.

The End of Brady’s Playing Career: No Comebacks

One of the most important aspects of this ownership deal is that it signals the definitive end of Tom Brady’s playing career. Despite ongoing speculation that Brady might return to the field—particularly after his initial retirement in 2022—the NFL’s approval of his ownership stake in the Raiders officially shuts the door on any potential comebacks.

As per NFL rules, once a player becomes a part-owner of a team, they are no longer eligible to play in the league. This rule prevents any conflicts of interest between ownership and playing duties. Therefore, even if injuries plague the Raiders’ quarterback room or another team were to reach out to Brady, his playing days are now definitively over.

For many fans, this moment is bittersweet. Brady’s dominance on the field has been a constant for over two decades, and the idea of never seeing him suit up again is hard to digest. However, this transition to ownership ensures that Brady will still be a major part of the NFL’s future, albeit from a different vantage point.

Brady’s Partnership and the Financial Stake

It’s important to note that Brady’s involvement with the Raiders extends beyond a 5% ownership stake. According to Rapoport, Brady, along with a business partner, has plans to purchase a total of 10% of the franchise over time. This larger stake demonstrates his commitment to the organization and its long-term success.

The financial details of the deal have not been fully disclosed, but it is estimated that Brady’s stake is worth several hundred million dollars, based on the overall valuation of the Raiders franchise. This type of investment also shows Brady’s confidence in the growing financial success of NFL franchises, particularly those in thriving markets like Las Vegas.

Looking Ahead: The Raiders’ Future with Brady

With Brady on board as a limited partner, the future of the Raiders looks bright. His football IQ, leadership experience, and connections across the league will likely give the franchise an edge in player recruitment, coaching hires, and overall team operations. Additionally, Brady’s involvement could attract top talent looking to work with someone who has achieved so much in the game.

While it remains to be seen how hands-on Brady will be in the day-to-day operations of the team, his influence will undoubtedly be felt. Whether advising on quarterback development, mentoring young players, or helping shape the overall team culture, Brady’s presence is a game-changer for the franchise.

In conclusion, Ian Rapoport’s report on Tom Brady’s official approval as a limited partner of the Raiders is a defining moment in NFL history. As Brady moves from the field to the front office, his legacy continues to evolve. Now, as part of the Raiders’ ownership group, he has the opportunity to make an impact off the field that could be just as significant as his achievements on it.