Raiders Linked to Early Favorite for Head Coach in 2026 Search

A rising coaching star with surprising momentum may be leading the Raiders early search for a new head coach.

The Las Vegas Raiders are still early in their head coaching search, but one name is starting to gain some real traction: Davis Webb.

Webb, currently the 30-year-old quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator for the Denver Broncos, recently interviewed with the Raiders-and by all accounts, he left a strong impression. According to reports, the feedback from that meeting wasn’t just good-it was “phenomenal.” That’s the kind of word that turns heads, especially when you're talking about a young coach still in the early stages of his NFL journey.

While it’s too soon to say if Webb will get a second interview, the buzz coming out of Vegas suggests that the organization was pleasantly surprised by what he brought to the table. One source familiar with the situation even said they “wouldn’t be surprised” if Webb moves forward in the process. That might not sound definitive, but in the world of NFL coaching hires, that’s a green light to keep watching.

Webb’s name got an extra boost this week when longtime NFL insider Albert Breer shared his early predictions for coaching hires across the league. When it came to the Raiders, Breer pointed to Webb as a serious candidate, highlighting not just his football IQ but also his ability to connect with players-a crucial trait for any head coach, but especially for a young one stepping into a leadership role.

“He has the presence. He has the personality to reach players,” Breer said. “He’s just a really unique guy, and I think the football people in Denver would tell you his football acumen is where it needs to be.”

Breer did acknowledge that hiring Webb would be a gamble, and that’s fair. Webb has never been a head coach at any level, and his rise through the coaching ranks has been rapid. But sometimes, the right fit doesn’t come with a long résumé-it comes with the right mindset, and Webb seems to have that in spades.

Q Myers, host of Raider Nation Radio, also weighed in on Breer’s comments, noting that Breer has a solid track record when it comes to Raiders-related predictions. Back in 2022, Breer was among the first to connect Josh McDaniels to the Las Vegas job. So when he says Webb could be the guy, people around the team are paying attention.

It’s also worth noting that the Raiders' front office includes several individuals with ties to the Broncos organization. That connection could help Webb’s case, especially if there’s already a level of familiarity and respect in place behind the scenes.

While nothing is set in stone and the Raiders’ decision could still be a week or two away, Webb’s name is one to circle. There’s legitimate momentum building here.

And this isn’t the first time Webb has wowed decision-makers. When Sean Payton took over in Denver, he initially planned to hire someone familiar-likely a coach from his New Orleans days.

But after interviewing Webb, Payton was so impressed that he hired him on the spot. That speaks volumes about Webb’s ability to command a room and articulate a vision-two qualities that are essential for any head coach.

Webb’s responsibilities in Denver have continued to grow. He was promoted to passing game coordinator and even called plays during the Broncos’ first preseason game against Arizona.

That’s not something most 30-year-old position coaches get asked to do. But Webb handled it like a seasoned vet, and it’s clear that Denver’s staff sees him as more than just a rising star-they see him as a difference-maker.

He also played a key role in the development of rookie quarterback Bo Nix this past season, and multiple teams reportedly tried to lure Webb away during the offseason. That kind of demand doesn’t happen by accident.

So, while the Raiders haven’t tipped their hand just yet, Davis Webb is firmly on the radar. He’s young, he’s sharp, and he’s already made a strong impression in league circles. If Las Vegas is looking for a fresh voice and a forward-thinking football mind to lead the next era of Raiders football, Webb might just be the bold swing they’re willing to take.