The Las Vegas Raiders are narrowing in on their next head coach, and the search has come down to three intriguing finalists. With the Arizona Cardinals as the only other team still without a head coach, all eyes are on Vegas as they prepare to make a pivotal decision that could shape the franchise’s future.
As it stands, the Raiders have completed second interviews with two candidates: Davis Webb, the Denver Broncos’ pass-game coordinator and quarterbacks coach, and Ejiro Evero, the Carolina Panthers’ defensive coordinator. The third name in the mix is Klint Kubiak, Seattle’s offensive coordinator, who’s scheduled to meet with the team again this weekend.
Kubiak has quickly emerged as a favorite among league insiders and observers, and it’s not hard to see why. He’s coming off a strong season in Seattle, where he helped guide the Seahawks to the No. 3 scoring offense in the league. Under his direction, Seattle finished eighth in passing yards and 11th in rushing-an impressive balance that speaks to his ability to scheme creatively and maximize talent.
One of the biggest feathers in Kubiak’s cap this year has been his work with quarterback Sam Darnold. After bouncing around the league, Darnold found new life in Kubiak’s system, turning in one of the most efficient seasons of his career. Kubiak also played a key role in the development and usage of rookie wideout Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who emerged as a dangerous weapon thanks to Kubiak’s ability to get him open in a variety of ways.
It’s not just about the numbers-it’s the system, too. Kubiak comes from the well-regarded Kubiak/Shanahan coaching tree, known for quarterback-friendly schemes that simplify reads and create high-percentage opportunities. That’s music to the ears of any organization looking to develop a young quarterback.
And that’s where the Raiders’ situation gets even more interesting. With the No. 1 overall pick in hand and expectations high that they’ll select quarterback Fernando Mendoza, bringing in an offensive-minded coach with a proven track record of elevating QB play makes all the sense in the world. Kubiak, in that regard, checks a lot of boxes.
Still, nothing is set in stone. While a second interview is certainly a positive sign, reports suggest the Raiders' chances of landing Kubiak are around 60-40.
One potential complication? The presence of minority owner Tom Brady.
According to reports, there’s some concern among candidates about how involved Brady might be in football operations-particularly whether he could second-guess coaching decisions from the top.
That dynamic adds a layer of complexity to the hiring process. Any coach stepping into the role will not only be tasked with developing a No. 1 overall pick and turning around a franchise that’s struggled for consistency but also navigating the expectations that come with a high-profile ownership group.
If the Raiders do decide to go with Kubiak, they’ll have to wait until after the Super Bowl to make it official. But for now, the pieces are in motion. Las Vegas is closing in on a decision, and whichever direction they go, it’s clear this hire will be one of the most consequential moves the team has made in years.