Antonio Pierce on future with Raiders: 'I'm under contract'

Field Level Media|published: Tue 17th December, 15:02 2024

Nov 24, 2024; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders coach Antonio Pierce reacts in the first half against the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Hours removed from the Raiders' 12th loss in 14 games, head coach Antonio Pierce described conversations about the franchise's future with owner Mark Davis as positive.

Las Vegas (2-12) is tied with the New York Giants for the worst record in the NFL with three games remaining. The Raiders have lost 10 consecutive games since beating the Cleveland Browns 20-16 on Sept. 29.

Asked if he thought he would be back next season, Pierce said Tuesday, "I'm under contract."

Davis said in Dallas at the NFL owners meetings last week he wanted to see progress from the Raiders, but would withhold any evaluation of the organization and Pierce until the season ends. Behind closed doors, Pierce said chats with Davis are frequent and upbeat.

"Me and Mark Davis talk often, and the conversations have been the same as they always are -- very positive," Pierce said.

The Raiders could find their way into the No. 1 pick in the 2025 draft. The organization last held the No. 1 pick in 2007 and selected LSU's JaMarcus Russell.

Quarterback remains a week-to-week variable for the franchise. Desmond Ridder started in the 15-9 loss to the Falcons on Monday, but Pierce said Aidan O'Connell (knee) is "trending upward" toward being available to play when the Raiders face the Jacksonville Jaguars (3-11) on Sunday.

Ridder was intercepted in the end zone on the final play of the game Monday. He completed 23 of 39 passes for 208 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions.

--Field Level Media