SPORT NEWS: Controversy Erupts Over Tom Brady’s Continued Eligibility to Vote for AP Honors as NFL Owner.giang

Tom Brady’s status as part-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders has sparked fresh scrutiny and a potential conflict of interest regarding his role as a voter for the Associated Press’ annual NFL honors. While the future Hall of Famer’s involvement in the Raiders’ organization may be an asset for the franchise, it also introduces complications tied to the prestigious awards he helps decide—such as MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, Coach of the Year, and the All-Pro teams.

Brady’s AP Voting Power

Brady is one of 50 select panel members tasked with casting votes for the AP’s end-of-season awards. These honors are highly coveted and can have major implications for players and coaches, both in terms of legacy and, in some cases, financial compensation.

Some NFL contracts include clauses that trigger bonuses if a player is named to the First- or Second-team All-Pro list, or if they secure honors like Offensive or Defensive Player of the Year.

The Raiders’ Involvement

Although the Raiders have struggled this season, their roster still boasts potential candidates for AP recognition. Tight end Brock Bowers, in particular, has put together a standout campaign and could draw votes for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Now that Brady is a part-owner of the team, any vote he casts in favor of a Raiders player could be perceived as a conflict of interest—especially if it contributes to fulfilling contract incentives that Brady, as an owner, might indirectly help finance.

League and AP Responses

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reached out to both the Associated Press and the NFL seeking clarification on whether Brady can or will continue serving as a voter. The AP offered “no comment,” while the NFL stated that it plays no role in the voting process or the selection of the panel. From the league’s perspective, the decision rests solely with the AP.

However, the lack of clear guidance on this issue leaves open the possibility of an awkward conflict, as Brady might have an influence on awards and bonuses that directly impact players on his own team.

Brady’s FOX Analyst Loophole

This isn’t the first time Brady’s post-retirement ventures have blurred the lines between impartial observer and stakeholder in the NFL. Despite theoretical restrictions tied to his new career as a FOX analyst, he has found ways to manage or sidestep potential conflicts.

Now, with ownership on his résumé, the scrutiny surrounding his voting power intensifies. There are questions over whether he can or should remain on the AP panel at all.

Potential Resignation from Voting

Given the league’s emphasis on integrity and fair competition, it wouldn’t be surprising if Brady eventually steps away from his voting duties.

Although it remains unclear if that will happen—and the AP has yet to make any formal statement—these concerns underscore the complexities of blending roles as an NFL owner, analyst, and award voter.

Looking Ahead

The unfolding situation highlights just how difficult it can be for former players to transition into ownership or media roles while retaining certain responsibilities tied to the broader league.

Brady’s decision, or the AP’s ruling, could set a precedent for similar scenarios in the future.

Until more official guidance surfaces, questions will linger about whether an owner—in this case, arguably the greatest quarterback of all time—should be in a position to cast influential votes on league-wide honors that may directly affect the bottom line of his own organization.