The Las Vegas Raiders are making moves on the defensive side of the ball - and they’re keeping it in-house. According to reports, the team is finalizing a deal to promote Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator. Leonard, who served last season as the Raiders’ defensive line coach and run-game coordinator, will now take over the defense under new head coach Klint Kubiak.
At first glance, it’s a bit of a curveball. Kubiak, stepping into his first head coaching role, had the opportunity to bring in fresh faces from outside the building. Instead, he’s doubling down on continuity - and on a coach who’s earned his stripes over the years.
Leonard’s NFL journey started back in 2013 with the New York Giants, where he came on as a defensive assistant. He climbed the ladder steadily, moving to assistant defensive line coach in 2017 and then assistant linebackers coach in 2018. From there, he spent time with the Miami Dolphins and Baltimore Ravens, gaining valuable experience in a variety of defensive systems before landing in Las Vegas in 2023.
In Vegas, Leonard has been instrumental in building up the Raiders’ defensive front, working closely with star edge rusher Maxx Crosby. That relationship could prove pivotal. Crosby has been the heartbeat of this defense, and with rumors swirling about his long-term future, having a familiar and trusted voice at the helm could help solidify his commitment to the team.
Leonard’s promotion also signals a commitment to the defensive identity the Raiders began carving out last season - one built around toughness up front and disciplined run defense. As run-game coordinator, Leonard played a key role in that development. Now, with the full defense under his direction, the expectation is that he’ll bring that same edge and attention to detail to all three levels of the unit.
This isn’t just about maintaining the status quo, though. It’s about elevating it.
The Raiders have shown flashes of defensive promise, but consistency has been elusive. Leonard’s challenge will be to take a group that’s shown potential and turn it into one that can consistently disrupt games, get off the field on third down, and complement what Kubiak hopes to build on offense.
For a team that’s been searching for stability - both on the field and in the coaching ranks - this move feels like a bet on familiarity, trust, and a coach who’s earned his shot. Now it’s up to Leonard to turn that opportunity into results.