Raiders Tap Klint Kubiak as New Head Coach, Betting on Youth, Innovation, and Quarterback Development
LAS VEGAS - The Raiders’ coaching search is officially over, and the franchise is turning the page with a bold new hire. Klint Kubiak, currently the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks, is set to become the next head coach in Las Vegas.
There’s just one catch - Kubiak has some unfinished business first.
The 38-year-old (he turns 39 on February 17) is still focused on helping the Seahawks prepare for Super Bowl LX against the New England Patriots. Until that game wraps up in Santa Clara, don’t expect to hear anything official from Kubiak or the Raiders. NFL rules - and professional focus - mean he won’t be speaking publicly about the new job until after the final whistle of the season.
But make no mistake, this is a major move for a franchise that’s been searching for direction. After parting ways with Pete Carroll on January 5, the Raiders took their time with this hire - and it appears they’ve landed on a coach they believe can help reshape the organization from the ground up.
A Fresh Face with a Deep Football Pedigree
Kubiak brings a mix of youth, experience, and a well-traveled résumé. He’s had coaching stints with the Vikings, Broncos, Saints, 49ers, and now Seahawks - a journey that’s given him a front-row seat to a variety of offensive systems and quarterback styles. That kind of exposure matters, especially for a team that’s likely about to draft and develop a young quarterback.
He’s played a role in the rise of Brock Purdy in San Francisco and helped guide Sam Darnold in Seattle. While some might raise an eyebrow at how often he’s moved around, the reality is that Kubiak has spent the last decade gathering intel - learning from different head coaches, adapting to different locker rooms, and refining his approach to offensive football.
In an interview earlier this week, Kubiak summed it up simply: “The main thing is just being yourself.” That kind of grounded mindset will serve him well as he steps into one of the NFL’s most scrutinized jobs.
Youth Movement in the Desert
After having 74-year-old Pete Carroll at the helm, the Raiders are going significantly younger - and that’s by design. Kubiak represents a new era: one built on modern offensive concepts, player development, and a willingness to grow alongside a young roster.
And make no mistake, this Raiders team is going to be young.
Kubiak will likely be tasked with developing the team’s next franchise quarterback - a player expected to be selected with the No. 1 overall pick in April. All signs point to Fernando Mendoza being that guy, and Kubiak’s ability to mentor and mold him will be a defining part of his tenure. With Tom Brady now part of the ownership group and reportedly connecting well with Kubiak during the interview process, there’s a strong support system in place for quarterback development.
But it’s not just about Mendoza. Kubiak inherits a talented - and intriguing - group of offensive weapons.
Running back Ashton Jeanty, tight end Brock Bowers, and wide receivers Tre Tucker, Jack Bech, Michael Mayer, and Dont’e Thornton form a promising young core. If the offensive line can stay healthy - with Kolton Miller, Jackson Powers-Johnson, and Jordan Meredith expected to return - there’s real potential for this unit to take a leap.
Rebuilding the Defense, Too
On the other side of the ball, Kubiak will need to bring in a new defensive coordinator after Patrick Graham left for Pittsburgh. That opens the door for a fresh defensive philosophy, and whoever Kubiak taps for the job will have a strong foundation to build on.
Maxx Crosby remains the centerpiece - a relentless force off the edge who sets the tone for the defense. With the right scheme and continued development from the supporting cast, this group could take a major step forward.
The Clock Is Ticking
Because Kubiak is the last of the new head coaches to be officially announced, he’ll be playing catch-up once the Super Bowl ends. That means quickly assembling a staff, diving into draft prep, and laying the groundwork for offseason workouts.
But don’t think he’s unprepared. It’s likely that during the interview process, Kubiak mapped out a staff and vision for the franchise - and with GM John Spytek and owner Mark Davis in alignment, the organization seems ready to move forward with urgency and purpose.
There’s also a belief that Kubiak and Brady’s early rapport could play a role in shaping the culture in Las Vegas. Having a future Hall of Famer in the building who understands what it takes to win - and who can help guide a young coach - is a luxury most franchises don’t have.
A Franchise at a Crossroads
Let’s be clear: this is a pivotal moment for the Raiders. Coming off a 3-14 season, the margin for error is slim.
The fan base has endured years of instability, relocation, and disappointment. This hire isn’t just about X’s and O’s - it’s about resetting the tone of the franchise.
And while Kubiak has never been a head coach before, the Raiders are betting on his upside. Betting that his experience, his offensive mind, and his ability to connect with young players will pay off.
The AFC West isn’t exactly the easiest place to start a head coaching career. You’re going up against Super Bowl-winning coaches and elite quarterbacks every week. But if Kubiak can help the Raiders find their next franchise QB - and build a system around him - he’ll have a shot to make some noise in a division that doesn’t wait around for rebuilds.
First, though, there’s a Super Bowl to coach. Then the real work begins in Henderson.
The Raiders are hoping Klint Kubiak is the right man for that job.