The Las Vegas Raiders are making moves - and not just on the field. On Thursday, head coach Klint Kubiak added a key piece to his coaching staff, bringing in longtime NFL veteran Mike McCoy as assistant head coach. It’s a notable hire, and one that signals the Raiders are serious about building a strong foundation as they prepare for what could be a franchise-defining offseason.
McCoy brings a wealth of experience to the table, especially on the offensive side of the ball. He spent four seasons as the head coach of the then-San Diego Chargers from 2013 to 2016, and more recently served as a senior offensive assistant with the Tennessee Titans. In fact, he was elevated to interim head coach midseason - and, in a twist of fate, that promotion came after a Week 6 loss to the Raiders.
But McCoy’s most relevant work might be what he accomplished with rookie quarterback Cam Ward this past season. Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, took some time to settle in, but by the back half of the season, the development was undeniable.
From Week 12 through Week 17, the Titans averaged 22.3 points per game, putting up 24 or more in five of those six contests. And it wasn’t against cupcakes, either - they did it facing defenses like the Seahawks, Saints, and 49ers.
That kind of offensive growth doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the product of smart coaching, tailored game-planning, and a clear understanding of how to bring a young quarterback along. Which brings us to the Raiders’ current situation.
Las Vegas holds the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and there’s already heavy buzz around Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza being the top target. If that’s the direction they go - and all signs point that way - then McCoy’s presence becomes even more valuable.
He’s been in the room with a rookie quarterback under the spotlight. He’s helped guide a No. 1 pick through the growing pains and into real productivity.
That kind of experience is gold for a team potentially about to hand the keys to a young signal-caller.
For Kubiak, who’s stepping into his first head coaching role, having someone like McCoy on staff gives him a sounding board - someone who’s been through the grind, made the tough calls, and understands the rhythm of an NFL season from the top seat. It also allows Kubiak to focus on building out his offensive vision, knowing he’s got a trusted veteran helping steer the ship.
The Raiders are clearly building with intent. They’ve got a new head coach, a likely new franchise quarterback on the way, and now a proven mentor in McCoy to help guide the transition. It’s early, but moves like this suggest Las Vegas is laying the groundwork for something bigger - and smarter - in 2026.