The Las Vegas Raiders are wasting no time building out their coaching staff under newly appointed head coach Klint Kubiak - and it looks like he’s eyeing some familiar faces from the Pacific Northwest.
According to league sources, the Raiders have their sights set on Seahawks safeties coach Jeff Howard, who is expected to interview for Las Vegas’ open defensive coordinator position. Howard played a key role in the development of standout rookie safety Nick Emmanwori this past season, earning respect around the league for his work in the secondary. With former Raiders DC Patrick Graham heading to Pittsburgh to join Mike Tomlin’s staff, that spot in Vegas is up for grabs - and Howard is firmly in the mix.
Howard’s coaching résumé is a blend of experience and versatility. He arrived in Seattle in 2024 as part of Mike Macdonald’s first staff with the Seahawks, but his NFL journey started long before that.
He spent seven seasons with the Minnesota Vikings as a defensive assistant, followed by a three-year stint with the Cleveland Browns where he served as defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator - a role that mirrors what Karl Scott currently holds in Seattle. Most recently, he worked with the Los Angeles Chargers as their linebackers coach during Brandon Staley’s final year.
One interesting wrinkle: despite his extensive NFL background, Howard has never called a defense at the pro or college level. His only experience as a defensive coordinator came during his early coaching days in Texas high school football. That said, his reputation as a sharp, detail-oriented teacher of the game - especially in the secondary - has made him a rising name in coaching circles.
Kubiak isn’t stopping there. The Raiders have also put in a request to interview Seahawks wide receivers coach Frisman Jackson for their offensive coordinator role. While Jackson likely wouldn’t be tasked with calling plays - that responsibility is expected to fall to Kubiak himself - his background developing young receivers and his familiarity with Kubiak’s offensive philosophy make him an intriguing candidate.
Jackson, like Howard, joined the Seahawks in 2024 and quickly made an impact on a young receiving corps. His previous stops include time with the Panthers, Browns, and Titans, where he built a reputation for getting the most out of his players.
For the Raiders, this is about more than just plugging holes on the staff. It’s about building a cohesive, forward-thinking coaching unit that aligns with Kubiak’s vision. And if that means pulling talent from Seattle - a team that’s quickly become known for its innovative, energetic coaching staff - then so be it.
Keep an eye on Vegas. Kubiak may be a first-time head coach, but he’s moving with purpose.