Raiders Target Former Seahawks Name in Search for Carroll Replacement

As the Raiders zero in on a top offensive mind to lead their next chapter, one intriguing frontrunner brings an ironic twist from a familiar NFC West rival.

As the 2026 NFL coaching carousel spins into its final stages, the Las Vegas Raiders are still searching for the right leader to take the reins following Pete Carroll’s short-lived tenure. And while half the league’s coaching vacancies have already been filled, the Silver and Black are taking their time-and for good reason. According to multiple league sources, the Raiders are zeroing in on Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who’s emerged as a top candidate after what’s being described as a strong initial interview.

Kubiak’s name has been circulating in head coaching conversations for a few years now, and it’s easy to see why. He’s been part of some highly productive offenses and has a reputation for developing quarterbacks and maximizing talent.

For a Raiders team that sputtered offensively in 2025, that kind of resume carries weight. The organization appears to be leaning toward an offensive-minded hire-an understandable pivot after a season where the offense never found its rhythm under Carroll and Chip Kelly.

But Kubiak isn’t the only name in the mix. The Raiders have also shown interest in Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur and Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.

LaFleur, part of Sean McVay’s coaching tree, has helped guide an explosive Rams offense that’s still alive in the playoffs. Joseph, meanwhile, brings the rare commodity of head coaching experience, having led the Broncos from 2017 to 2018.

While his 11-21 record during that stint wasn’t exactly stellar, his defensive acumen and leadership qualities continue to earn him respect around the league.

Also mentioned in league circles is Davis Webb, currently the Broncos’ pass-game coordinator. Webb may not have the name recognition of some of the others, but insiders believe he’s a rising star with a sharp football mind. Other virtual interviewees include Rams assistants Chris Shula and Nate Scheelhaase, both of whom are still coaching deep into the postseason.

That playoff involvement is a key factor here. Because many of the Raiders’ top targets are still coaching in the postseason, the team’s final decision could be delayed for another week or two. But if you’re Las Vegas, that’s a trade-off you’re willing to make to land the right guy-especially when trying to build a sustainable offensive identity around a young, talented core.

For Raiders fans, the idea of hiring another coach with Seahawks ties might bring back some mixed feelings after the Carroll experiment fizzled so quickly. But Kubiak isn’t Carroll.

He’s younger, more in tune with today’s offensive trends, and has shown he can adapt to different systems and personnel. If the Raiders believe he can unlock the potential of their offense, this could be a move that sets the tone for a much-needed reset in Vegas.

Bottom line: the Raiders aren’t rushing this decision, and they shouldn’t. With several intriguing candidates still in the playoff picture, Las Vegas is keeping its options open-but all signs point to Kubiak being the name to watch as the search narrows.