The Raiders’ head coaching search continues to take shape, and Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula remains firmly in the mix. While much of the buzz around Vegas has centered on offensive-minded candidates, Shula’s name hasn’t faded - and that says something about how seriously the organization is weighing all angles.
Now, let’s be clear: the Raiders have shown a clear preference for offensive backgrounds in this cycle. Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and Broncos quarterbacks coach Davis Webb have been among the more intriguing names floated, and that trend suggests the team is eyeing someone who can directly develop the offense - and, more importantly, the quarterback position.
That’s where Shula’s candidacy gets interesting. As a defensive coach, he doesn’t check that offensive box - but he does bring a compelling counterbalance.
And according to reports, he wouldn’t be coming alone. Rams quarterbacks coach Dave Ragone is viewed as a strong candidate to follow Shula as offensive coordinator if he lands the job.
That pairing could be the key to bridging the offensive-defensive divide and giving the Raiders a well-rounded leadership team.
Here’s how the Raiders’ coaching search currently stacks up:
Finalists:
- Former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel (now with the Chargers)
- Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero (interviewed)
- Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter (interviewed by the Ravens)
- Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley (now with the Dolphins)
Other Candidates:
- Broncos DC Vance Joseph (interviewed)
- Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak (withdrew from consideration)
- Chiefs OC Matt Nagy (interviewed)
- Broncos QBs coach Davis Webb (interview requested)
- Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase (interview scheduled)
- Rams OC Mike LaFleur (interview requested)
- Rams DC Chris Shula (interview requested)
- Vikings DC Brian Flores
- Former Giants HC Brian Daboll (interviewed)
Shula, 39, brings a deep football lineage with him. He’s the son of Dave Shula and the grandson of Don Shula - yes, that Don Shula, the Hall of Fame coach and architect of the NFL’s only perfect season. But Chris has carved out his own path, rising through the ranks with a steady, versatile climb.
He got his start in 2015 with the Chargers as a defensive quality control coach, then joined the Rams in 2017 as an assistant linebackers coach. From there, he’s worn a lot of hats - outside linebackers coach, defensive backs coach, pass rush coordinator - and in 2023, he returned to leading the edge group before being promoted to defensive coordinator in 2024.
And the results? Solid.
In 2025, the Rams defense ranked 10th in scoring and 17th in total defense. They were stout against the run (12th) and middle-of-the-pack against the pass (19th).
Not elite, but certainly respectable - especially considering the youth and turnover on that side of the ball.
Shula’s candidacy may not be the flashiest, but there’s substance here. His experience across multiple defensive positions, his leadership within a playoff-caliber organization, and his potential partnership with a respected offensive mind like Ragone all make him a name worth watching as the Raiders zero in on their next head coach.