The Pete Carroll era in Las Vegas may not last beyond a single season.
When the Raiders brought in Carroll, the hope was that his championship pedigree and leadership would spark a turnaround. Instead, the team has stumbled to a 2-13 record, and with just two weeks left in the regular season, it’s fair to wonder if the franchise is already eyeing its next move.
If the Raiders decide to part ways with Carroll, one name generating buzz in league circles is Jesse Minter, the current defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers. According to reports, Minter is viewed as a rising coaching talent with a résumé that’s quietly building momentum.
And it’s not hard to see why.
Minter’s coaching journey has been a steady climb through both the college and pro ranks. He cut his teeth at the collegiate level starting in 2006, then made the leap to the NFL in 2017 with the Baltimore Ravens.
That stint lasted through 2020 and included time working alongside Mike Macdonald, who’s now leading the Seattle Seahawks. Minter would later follow in Macdonald’s footsteps again, taking over as Michigan’s defensive coordinator in 2022 before joining Jim Harbaugh with the Chargers.
That connection to Harbaugh has been significant, and it’s paid dividends for the Chargers' defense. In 2024, under Minter’s guidance, Los Angeles finished 11th in total defense, allowing 324.4 yards per game.
Fast forward to 2025, and they’ve taken another big leap-entering Week 17 ranked third in the league, giving up just 283.1 yards per game. That kind of improvement doesn’t happen by accident.
It speaks to Minter’s ability to adapt, scheme, and get the most out of his personnel.
Of course, loyalty to Harbaugh and the Chargers could be a factor in whether Minter would entertain a head coaching offer. But opportunities to lead an NFL team don’t come around often, and even fewer come with the chance to help rebuild a storied franchise like the Raiders.
Las Vegas is likely headed for a reset this offseason, particularly at quarterback. If the front office is looking for a fresh start and a coach who can bring structure, discipline, and a defensive identity, Minter fits the mold. He’s young, experienced, and has proven he can lead units that perform at a high level.
It’s still early in the coaching carousel, but if the Raiders do make a change, Jesse Minter is a name worth watching closely.