Overview
- Las Vegas is finalizing the in-house promotion of defensive line coach and run-game coordinator Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator, per NFL Network and ESPN.
- Joe Woods will remain as defensive pass-game coordinator, maintaining carryover on the defensive staff.
- The search considered external options, with interviews for DeMarcus Covington of the Packers as well as Rams assistant Aubrey Pleasant and Seahawks safeties coach Jeff Howard.
- Leonard has been with the Raiders since 2023 and steps into his first NFL defensive coordinator role after working closely with star pass rusher Maxx Crosby.
- The decision underscores Kubiak’s early staff-building approach as he retains offensive play-calling duties and replaces former DC Patrick Graham.