The wife of Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce has filed for bankruptcy, as the former NFL player faces over $28 million in debts stemming from failed car dealership investments.
Jocelyn Pierce, the wife of Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce, has filed for bankruptcy in Arizona, citing her need to protect her and her husband's assets from creditors. The move comes after it was revealed that Antonio Pierce is personally liable for over $28 million in debts, primarily stemming from unsuccessful car dealership investments made in the early 2010s.
Documents obtained from the court reveal that Antonio Pierce was convinced to invest in car dealerships in the 2010s, despite having no oversight or management responsibilities over the businesses. He was asked to sign various documents, including personal guarantees, which creditors later produced with his signature on them. When several of the businesses defaulted on their loans, the lenders obtained judgments against both the businesses and Pierce as a guarantor.
Raiders Head Coach Antonio Pierce's Wife Files for Bankruptcy Amidst $28 Million Debt
According to The Athletic, the two primary lenders, Nissan Motor Acceptance Corporation and Hyundai Capital America, each hold judgments against Pierce for $23 million and $4.5 million, respectively. As a result, these lenders sought to seize Pierce's wages from the Raiders to satisfy his debt, prompting Jocelyn Pierce to file for bankruptcy.
Jocelyn Pierce has been granted an extension until July 12 to provide additional paperwork after claiming that she did not sign any guarantees on the loan and was forced to file for bankruptcy after the lenders attempted to collect it.
Raiders Head Coach Antonio Pierce's Wife Files for Bankruptcy Amidst $28 Million Debt
Antonio Pierce, 45, joined the Raiders in 2022 as the linebackers coach. He was elevated to interim head coach in 2023 after the firing of Josh McDaniels and was officially named head coach in January 2024.
The Raiders have not publicly commented on the bankruptcy filing or Pierce's financial situation. However, the case highlights the potential financial risks associated with high-profile sports figures making investments outside of their area of expertise.
Raiders Head Coach Antonio Pierce's Wife Files for Bankruptcy Amidst $28 Million Debt
In a separate development, former Raiders star Chandler Jones recently avoided jail time in a domestic violence case, reportedly reaching a plea deal with prosecutors. Jones was arrested in January 2023 and charged with misdemeanor battery domestic violence.
The plea deal reportedly requires Jones to serve probation and complete a domestic violence counseling program. He will also face a 15-game suspension under the NFL's personal conduct policy, which could have significant financial implications for the player.
