Could Tom Brady influence Raiders to hire this head-coaching candidate?

Tom Brady is not officially a co-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, but he has still spent time around the team, and owner Mark Davis values his opinion. That could pave the way for one coach to land there, according to a new report.

Brady was present for the Raiders’ final practice of the season, sparking speculation that he might have a role in the team’s coaching search, according to Albert Breer of SI. If Brady does give input, Breer imagines he would strongly vouch for former Patriots teammate Mike Vrabel as a strong choice for the Las Vegas job.

Brady has been linked to the Raiders since he sought to buy a minority stake in the team last year. No deal has been finalized due to resistance from other NFL owners over the agreed purchase price, but the deal is certainly still in play.

Brady and Vrabel are known to be close, and Breer believes Vrabel would be at the top of any list Brady presented to Raiders ownership. Vrabel was recently let go by the Tennessee Titans despite making the playoffs three times in six seasons.

There had been previous reports suggesting that Brady would at least have Davis’ ear during the Raiders’ search. If true, Vrabel could certainly be counted as a viable candidate. However, it might alienate some players who have already made their minds up regarding who they want hired.