The Raiders’ coaching search is heating up, and as the team zeroes in on its next leader, a few familiar names-and a couple of fresh ones-are starting to rise to the top of the list.
Ejiro Evero is set to meet with the Raiders for a second interview next week, signaling continued interest from the organization. Evero, who previously interviewed for the job in 2023 before the team ultimately chose Antonio Pierce, hasn’t been widely viewed as a frontrunner this time around. But a second interview means he’s still very much in the mix, even if the broader expectation is that the Raiders are leaning toward an offensive-minded hire.
That offensive focus has brought plenty of attention to the Sean McVay coaching tree-no surprise there. McVay’s influence continues to ripple across the league, and the Raiders appear to be eyeing some of his protégés as potential fits for their next head coach.
Among the names getting serious traction are Klint Kubiak and Mike LaFleur. Both are well-regarded offensive minds with ties to the McVay system, and both are reportedly near the top of the Raiders’ wishlist.
According to recent insider buzz, Kubiak is currently seen as the favorite to land the job, with one source going as far as to say he’s “without a doubt” the leader in the clubhouse. That’s a strong endorsement in what remains a fluid situation.
LaFleur, meanwhile, is also drawing high praise. His offensive acumen and ability to connect with players have made him a compelling candidate, and expectations are that he’ll make a strong impression when he sits down with Raiders brass.
Behind Kubiak and LaFleur, two other names to keep an eye on are Davis Webb and Nate Scheelhaase. Webb, a young and fast-rising coach, has been mentioned by some as a dark horse for the job, while Scheelhaase is gaining momentum as a creative offensive thinker. Both are viewed as intriguing options, though perhaps not quite at the same level of frontrunners like Kubiak and LaFleur.
What’s clear is that the Raiders are casting a wide net-but with a clear preference for offensive innovation and leadership. That makes sense given the landscape of today’s NFL, where offensive flexibility and quarterback development are often the difference between a playoff team and a rebuild.
And make no mistake: Las Vegas is one of the most attractive destinations in this year’s coaching carousel. With the No. 1 overall pick in the draft, a potential franchise quarterback in Fernando Mendoza, and more than $100 million in projected cap space, the Raiders are in a rare position to reshape their roster in a big way.
Whoever takes the reins in Vegas will have the tools-and the pressure-to turn this team into a contender. The pieces are there. Now it’s just about finding the right architect to put them all together.