Raiders Face Another Offseason of Uncertainty - Could Mike McDaniel Be the Answer in Vegas?
The Las Vegas Raiders are staring down another offseason filled with tough questions and even tougher decisions. After a 2025 campaign that failed to deliver any real progress, it’s clear that the current setup - a veteran head coach and a journeyman quarterback - hasn’t moved the needle. And in a league that demands results, especially when you bring in seasoned leadership, patience wears thin fast.
Let’s be honest: this wasn’t supposed to be a long-term rebuild. When the Raiders brought in a 74-year-old head coach and a 35-year-old quarterback who’s bounced between starting and backup roles throughout his career, it was a signal that the franchise was looking for immediate results.
This was a short-term play, a “win-now” gamble. But instead of taking a step forward, the Silver and Black have once again stalled out.
Now, with another offseason looming, the Raiders may find themselves heading back into the wilderness in search of both a new quarterback and a new head coach. But here’s where things get interesting: a recent shakeup in Miami might just open the door to a potential game-changer in Las Vegas.
Tua Benched, McDaniel on the Hot Seat - and the Raiders Should Be Watching Closely
In a move that sent ripples across the league, the Miami Dolphins announced they’re benching quarterback Tua Tagovailoa for the remainder of the season. Rookie seventh-round pick Quinn Ewers will take over under center, with the Dolphins already eliminated from playoff contention.
That decision has sparked plenty of conversation - and not just in South Florida. Raiders fans are understandably wondering if their team should follow suit and give their younger quarterbacks some live reps in the final weeks. It’s a logical thought, especially with the season effectively over.
But the bigger story here isn’t about Tua or Ewers. It’s about Mike McDaniel.
The Dolphins' decision to move on from Tagovailoa could signal that McDaniel’s time in Miami is winding down. Earlier this year, the team parted ways with longtime GM Chris Grier.
At the time, ownership said McDaniel’s future wouldn’t be decided until season’s end. Well, here we are - and the writing might be on the wall.
McDaniel has already seen the front office and now his quarterback pushed out. If the Dolphins are heading for a full reset, McDaniel could be next. And if that happens, the Raiders should absolutely be in the mix.
Why McDaniel Makes Sense for Las Vegas
Let’s be clear: if McDaniel becomes available, he won’t be unemployed for long. He’s one of the most innovative offensive minds in the league, and despite Miami’s recent struggles, his system had the Dolphins humming not too long ago. The issues in Miami weren’t entirely on him - and league insiders know that.
McDaniel’s name will be on shortlists across the NFL. He’s got connections throughout the league, and he’s not the kind of coach who would need to "interview well" to land a job. His reputation speaks for itself.
But here’s where Las Vegas becomes an intriguing landing spot.
Owner Mark Davis has shown a willingness to spend on top-tier coaching talent, especially when it comes to offensive play-callers. If the Raiders are positioned to draft a young quarterback this spring - and all signs point to that being the case - pairing that rookie with a coach like McDaniel could be a franchise-altering move.
McDaniel’s offensive creativity could be exactly what the Raiders need to finally build an identity on that side of the ball. And for McDaniel, Vegas offers something rare: a chance to rebuild his coaching stock in a high-profile market, with a fresh quarterback and an owner willing to invest.
A Long Road Ahead, But a Glimmer of Hope
Let’s not sugarcoat it - turning the Raiders around is no easy task. The franchise has been stuck in neutral for years, cycling through coaches and quarterbacks with little to show for it. But every rebuild needs a spark, and McDaniel could be that spark.
If the Dolphins do move on from him, the Raiders would be wise to pick up the phone. The pieces aren’t all in place yet, but the opportunity is there. And in a league where timing is everything, this might be the right coach at the right time for a team desperate to find its footing.
The offseason hasn’t even begun, but the Raiders’ path forward is already starting to take shape. Now it’s up to Mark Davis to decide if he’s ready to take a big swing - because if Mike McDaniel becomes available, someone will. And it might as well be Vegas.