Raiders owner Mark Davis says team was headed in 'wrong direction' under Josh McDaniels, Dave Ziegler

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Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis broke his silence on the recent sweeping changes to the team's coaching staff and front office.

Head coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler were both fired earlier this week, and Davis said the decision was made in part due to his belief the team was not progressing.

"Unfortunately, I had great hopes for Josh and Dave," Davis told ESPN. "It just seemed we were going in the wrong direction. So, with the trade deadline, I just felt it was time to make a change, time to make a move."

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Head coach Josh McDaniels, left, and owner and managing general partner Mark Davis of the Las Vegas Raiders talk before a preseason game against the New England Patriots at Allegiant Stadium Aug. 26, 2022, in Las Vegas. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The Raiders promoted Antonio Pierce to interim head coach. Davis cited Pierce's intensity when he spoke about the decision to elevate him for the remainder of this season. 

"Seemed like a fresh approach," Davis said in reference to Pierce coaching the team. "Seemed like the adjustment we need at this time. I was impressed."

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During his introductory press conference, Pierce vowed to delegate duties to the coaching staff.

"Lead, not necessarily coach," Davis said. "To delegate to the coordinators and other position coaches. Be somebody they could follow. I felt good about it. I felt good about him."

Head coach Josh McDaniels, left, and general manager Dave Ziegler of the Las Vegas Raiders walk off the field