Las Vegas has had its fair share of drama lately—from Coach Antonio Pierce’s NCAA show-cause penalty to the Davante Adams’ saga. But we’d like to say amidst all that storm, Raiders fans might just have found some hope in rookie Dylan Laube. We know it’s way too early to call in shots. But selected 208th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Laube has shown flashes of potential. And now, he made time from his rookie season (which is not going well for his team) to sit down for an all-exclusive interview with EssentiallySports. And let’s just say, he had some pretty cool stories about his head coach’s contagious energy to share with us.

Talking about his first encounter with Antonio Pierce on draft day, Laube recalled, “The first time I talked to him was actually on draft day… his excitement and his energy 24/7 just kind of sparks that juice out of every single person in the facility.” Imagine getting drafted and receiving that kind of energy boost from your new coach—must’ve felt like a kickoff return touchdown.

And throughout the time he spoke, we could see a smile on his face. We don’t want to read between the lines too much, but it was as if he was that smile was saying, ‘I‘ve made it.’ Yup, that kinda smile.

But we know it’s a rough pill to swallow for you (if you are from the Raiders Nation) with the coaching shake-ups. Especially as the offense plays a game of musical chairs. After the week 9 loss to the Bengals, Las Vegas fired OC Luke Getsy, putting interim Scott Turner in the play-caller seat. To add to the mix, Turner’s dad, ex-Raiders coach Norv Turner, joined as a senior advisor. Now, rumor has it, they may look to veteran journeyman Gardner Minshew to steady the ship.

But you know, his exclusive interview (on record, that is) might just not be the first account of the mutual respect between them. Yes! You read that right. Rather, AP has even come up front to praise Dylan.

Antonio Pierce revealed why the Raiders went for Dylan Laube

“That dude is special… And he’s gritty.” This is what Antonio Pierce said about Dylan Laube after the Raiders’ rookie RB got his first NFL reps. I mean, it’s as if you could hear the excitement through his speech. And why not? Laube’s got that speed, that fire. Even if that’s not enough, then for a sixth-round pick out of New Hampshire? That’s saying something.

Meanwhile, it did not take him long to surprise even his veteran teammates during practice. As an RB, Laube nailed with the fieldwork (as expected). But he also brought a bit of showtime to the team’s rookie talent show with a not-too-shabby rendition of Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer.” Even All-Pro punter AJ Cole was impressed with Laube’s stage presence—how he moved during the preseason practice sesh.

However, it was more than the “commanding presence” that impressed everyone. It was also about his versatility. Yup! Laube even took snaps as a wide receiver and hustled on special teams. Talk about settling in. Naah! He did more than just that. He chased his dream, chose the opportunity, and made the moment his. How do we say it these days? He’s HIM. If not so, then at least that was a HIM moment.

With the Raiders’ RB room stacked, Laube’s versatility might be his ticket to more touches. From running routes out of the backfield to returning punts, he’s proven he can do it all. As Laube put it, “Me getting a matchup with a (linebacker) is super important. I think I can win every time.” That confidence isn’t something you expect from a late-round pick—but Laube’s clearly got a point to prove.

But fret not, during his all-exclusive interview with EssentiallySports, he made a statement that sums it all up: “I can’t wait to show everyone why I truly deserve to be in this league.” And you can bet that we are all in for the hype!