Despite finishing 3-14 in 2025, the Las Vegas Raiders are emerging as a compelling destination for head coaches seeking a chance to build a team from the ground up, especially those with offensive expertise.
The Silver and Black have endured four head-coaching searches in as many seasons, yet the franchise offers a rare combination of top draft position, offensive talent, and ample salary-cap flexibility to accelerate a rebuild efficiently.
With Pete Carroll gone, Las Vegas is embracing a rebuild and holds the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Combined with projected cap space near $98 million, the Raiders are positioned to rapidly assemble a competitive roster.
“The Raiders are an intriguing organization this cycle,” Tyler Sullivan said to CBS Sports. “The Pete Carroll era crashed and burned, but there is hope for a brighter future.
“That is because a trying 2025 season resulted in Las Vegas landing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, putting the franchise in position to select Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
“If Mendoza lives up to the hype, the Raiders would suddenly have a promising young core that includes the Indiana quarterback, along with running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers.
“Pair that with roughly $98 million in projected cap space — the third most in the NFL — and this rebuild could be jump-started quickly. That should make Las Vegas an attractive destination for someone like Klint Kubiak, who is among the most sought-after candidates.”
If Mendoza fulfills expectations, the Raiders would instantly possess a promising young core, including running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers, giving a new coach legitimate offensive pieces to build around.
Raiders making their way through head coach candidates
As of January 15, the Raiders have interviewed seven potential head-coaching candidates, gathering insights into their philosophies and fit for the organization’s long-term vision as they shop for their new leader.
The list includes Kevin Stefanski, Matt Nagy, Davis Webb, Vance Joseph, Klint Kubiak, Jesse Minter, and Ejiro Evero, each bringing unique experience and track records in the NFL or college ranks.
Jesse Minter, current defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, previously led Michigan’s defense to a national championship in 2023 and ranked second nationally in total defense over two seasons.
Ejiro Evero, the Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator, has spent the last three seasons leading Carolina’s defense, and previously contributed to the Los Angeles Rams’ Super Bowl LVI-winning secondary.
Kevin Stefanski, former Cleveland Browns head coach, compiled a 45-56 record over six seasons, earning AP Coach of the Year twice and guiding the Browns to two 11-win campaigns and playoff appearances.
Matt Nagy, Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator, rose through the ranks under Andy Reid, coordinating Patrick Mahomes’ rookie season and winning AP NFL Coach of the Year with the Chicago Bears in 2018 before returning to Kansas City.
Davis Webb, former NFL quarterback, serves as Denver Broncos offensive pass game coordinator and quarterbacks coach, guiding rookie Bo Nix to record-setting numbers while helping develop Denver’s passing game since 2023.
Vance Joseph, the Broncos’ current defensive coordinator, has over 20 years of experience, including head-coaching duties, and has coached 16 Pro Bowlers and one AP Defensive Player of the Year, helping Denver lead the NFL in sacks over the last three seasons.
Klint Kubiak, Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator, helped Seattle rank third in points scored in his first season and has experience with numerous teams, developing quarterbacks and overseeing high-powered offenses.
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