The Las Vegas Raiders have wasted little time since parting ways with Pete Carroll, turning their attention to a defensive minded candidate who has quickly gained traction around the NFL.
According to ESPN‘s Jeremy Fowler, the Raiders have requested an interview with Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, who is also drawing interest from the Miami Dolphins.
“The Las Vegas Raiders and Miami Dolphins are requesting to interview Packers DC Jeff Hafley for their head coaching positions,” Fowler reported. “That will be five requests and counting for Hafley.”
Hafley, 46, has been the Packers‘ defensive coordinator since 2024, transforming the unit into one of the league’s most difficult to face.
His tenure in Green Bay has not only solidified his reputation as a premier defensive mind but also made him a hot commodity for teams seeking a fresh coaching perspective.
“His work with Green Bay has been remarkable,” Fowler added. “Multiple NFL teams are now seeking his services, and the Raiders and Dolphins join others in requesting interviews.”
Before joining the Packers, Hafley served as head coach at Boston College, where he honed his leadership skills and developed a reputation for disciplined, strategic football.
His experience also spans several NFL and collegiate positions, including stints with Tampa Bay, where he gained a deep understanding of defensive schemes and player development.
Las Vegas‘ coaching search follows a turbulent 2025 season that ended with a 3 and 14 record under Carroll.
Despite a 14 to 12 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in the season finale, the Raiders could not recover from a 10 game losing streak that left them holding the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Carroll‘s brief tenure made the franchise one of eight teams to move on from their head coaches this offseason.
Tom Brady takes the helm of Raiders football operations
Tom Brady, who holds a minority stake in the Raiders, is playing a central role in the team’s head coaching search.
Owner Mark Davis confirmed that Brady will work closely with general manager John Spytek in guiding football operations.
“Together they will guide football decisions with a shared focus on leadership, culture, and alignment with the organization’s long term vision and goals,” Davis said in a statement.
A potential move for Hafley would signal a shift toward a culture driven approach emphasized by Brady and Spytek.
The Raiders‘ recent instability highlights the challenge ahead, with five head coaches since 2021. Jon Gruden remains the only coach in recent memory to complete more than one full season.
For Hafley, the opportunity comes with significant pressure. Leading a franchise in transition after a difficult season requires discipline, development, and a clear identity.
Given his success in Green Bay and prior head coaching experience at Boston College, Hafley appears positioned to handle the challenge.
As interviews continue, Hafley has emerged as a serious contender, and attention now turns to whether Las Vegas believes he is the coach to help restore long term stability and competitiveness.
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