SAN JOSE, Calif. — The Las Vegas Raiders’ next head coach is currently focused on winning a Super Bowl, but his current boss has already confirmed the move.
Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider revealed during an NFL Network interview at Super Bowl Opening Night that offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak will be leaving for the Raiders after Sunday’s game. “Obviously, we see Klint going to the Raiders now,” Schneider said.
Kubiak, who has led the Seahawks to the NFL’s best point differential this season, deflected questions about his future during his media session. “I’m coaching the Seahawks in the Super Bowl and that’s really all I’m thinking about,” he said. “I’ve been working my whole life to get to this game, so that’s where my focus will be.”
He did offer a small concession: “Whatever comes next, we’ll deal with it on Monday.”
Under NFL rules, Kubiak and the Raiders can reach a verbal agreement, but no contract can be signed or announced until after the Super Bowl. The Raiders have been searching for a head coach since parting ways with Antonio Pierce earlier this offseason.
Seahawks guard Grey Zabel praised Kubiak’s impact. “He’s been unbelievable. I’ve always said it was never if he was going to get a head coaching job, it was when,” Zabel said. “He’s an unbelievable guy and a great mentor for our offense.”
Kubiak, the son of former NFL coach Gary Kubiak, has worked his way up through the coaching ranks. His offensive scheme transformed Seattle into a powerhouse, making him a top candidate on the coaching carousel.
He credited Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald and Schneider for his growth. “Mike Macdonald is a phenomenal leader and head coach,” Kubiak said. “Just to get to be around him and John Schneider, two great leaders who have helped me and all of us coaches (has been helpful).”
Rick Dennison, Seattle’s run game coordinator and a longtime friend of the Kubiak family, noted Klint’s development. “He works hard, but he’s always worked hard,” Dennison said. “I think as a leader, he’s really grown so much. His communication skills, his people skills.”
