The NFL has been accused of “going out of its way to help” Tom Brady as the Raiders' minority owner prepares to commentate on the Lions-Commanders game.
The seven-time Super Bowl winner is in the first season of a 10-year, $375 million contract as the network's lead NFL analyst.
But Brady also has a minority stake in the Raiders, and owner Mark Davis recently confirmed that he will have a “big say” in the franchise's future.
Ben Johnson is said to be Brady's choice to become Las Vegas' new head coach, but he currently works as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions.
Detroit's Divisional Round game against the Commanders will air on Fox Sports, with Brady set to be in the booth at Ford Field.
That has raised questions about whether the 47-year-old should be allowed to juggle both roles, including from radio host Dan Patrick.
The NFL has been accused of “going out of its way to help” former quarterback Tom Brady
The seven-time Super Bowl winner is in the first season of a 10-year, $375 million Fox contract.
Dan Patrick (R) has questioned Brady's role, given his interest in Ben Johnson (L)
“The NFL is doing everything they can to help Tom Brady, it feels like… I don't think the NFL wants him out of the broadcast booth, I think they want him there,” he said.
It has the Lions game against the Commanders. What if they show Ben Johnson on the sidelines?
'Is Raiders minority owner Tom Brady allowed to talk about Ben Johnson? Do you have any inside information? Which I think I would do.
“I love how the NFL makes it seem like this isn't a conflict of interest…How many times do you hear about a game where you're going to read, maybe an ulterior motive?”
Brady is personally involved in recruiting a replacement for Antonio Pierce after the head coach was fired following a difficult season.
The seven-time Super Bowl winner is “in love” with Johnson, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport. Brady also spent time with the offensive coordinator's agent, Rapoport said.