After trying to buy a stake in the Las Vegas Raiders for a long time now, future Hall of Fame quarterback and FOX broadcaster Tom Brady was finally approved by league owners on Tuesday afternoon.
Brady’s bid was put on the back burner for a awhile because of the fear of conflict of interest with the New England Patriots legend also being a broadcaster for FOX. However, that has been sorted out after Brady was given conditions on what he can’t do to avoid any problems.
According to reports, Brady has a five-percent stake in the Raiders now, and a 10% stake overall when you include his partners. Also involved is fellow former Patriot, Richard Seymour, who has a 0.5% stake in Las Vegas, per reports.
Hours after news broke of Brady’s approval, he released a statement touching on his now-successful bid.
“I’m incredibly humbled and excited to have been unanimously approved as an owner of the Las Vegas Raiders,” Brady wrote. “Throughout my NFL career, I’ve learned that at its core, football is a game of teamwork, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellent. The Raiders franchise, and the city of Las Vegas embody these same values, and I’m honored to become part of that story.
“Football has been part of my entire life growing up in the Bay Area and in so many ways, my football life and journey has come full circle. I love the sport, I love my teammates, coaches, and the fans in every organization I’ve been part of” he added. “Sports brings us together in a way nothing else cal. I grew up on the field, and it’s a blessing to know I’ll be involved in the greatest league in the world for the rest of my life.
“I’d like to thank Mark Davis for welcoming me into his family, and the tireless work he’s done to help build on the organization that so many fans know and love today. Also thank you to Commissioner Goodell for his support as well as all the NFL owners that supported my dream – I’ve forever grateful. I’d also like to thank my partner Tom Wagner, Don Yee, Jim Gray, Alex Spiro, and Larry Delson as they have been instrumental in helping me achieve this incredible milestone.
“I’m eager to contribute to the organization in any way I can, honoring the Raiders’ rich tradition while finding every possible opportunity to improve our offers to fans… and most important, WIN football games,” Brady concluded.
Raiders owner Mark Davis touched on Brady becoming part owner of the team, saying it was “an exciting day for the Raiders,” before adding that he hopes Brady can help the team find its next quarterback.
Clearly Davis values Brady’s opinion, as he should. We’ll see how much pull the future Hall of Famer has in the days, weeks, months and years ahead.
