The Las Vegas Raiders fired head coach Pete Carroll on Monday, marking the fourth time in five years the franchise has sought a new leader. Unlike previous searches, the team now holds the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft, a significant asset that could attract top candidates eager to develop a franchise quarterback.
Owner Mark Davis, minority owner Tom Brady, and general manager John Spytek will lead the search, which is expected to target both offensive and defensive minds. The ideal candidate will be a strong leader and teacher, though an offensive specialist—either as head coach or coordinator—may be prioritized to groom a young signal-caller.
Here are potential candidates, listed alphabetically:
Joe Brady, Bills offensive coordinator
Brady was the passing game coordinator for LSU’s national championship team with Joe Burrow and is regarded as one of the NFL’s brightest offensive minds.
Ejiro Evero, Panthers defensive coordinator
In his third season in Carolina, Evero has helped oversee a culture change and his stock has risen with the Panthers’ recent surge.
Brian Flores, Vikings defensive coordinator
The former Dolphins head coach is a top defensive mind with a strong relationship with Brady. He could bring a top offensive coordinator, like former Giants head coach Brian Daboll, to groom a young quarterback.
Jeff Hafley, Packers defensive coordinator
Hafley spent four seasons as Boston College’s head coach and is known as a leader and defensive mind suited for the scrutiny of the Raiders job.
Kliff Kingsbury, Commanders offensive coordinator
The former Cardinals head coach was set to be the Raiders’ offensive coordinator in 2024 before joining Washington to work with Jayden Daniels, restoring his reputation.
Klint Kubiak, Seahawks offensive coordinator
Kubiak, son of former NFL quarterback and head coach Gary Kubiak, is in his first season as Seattle’s offensive coordinator.
Jesse Minter, Chargers defensive coordinator
Minter has been a high-level defensive leader with the Chargers and at Michigan under Jim Harbaugh. His Michigan ties to Spytek and Brady don’t hurt.
Todd Monken, Ravens offensive coordinator
Monken has overseen a high-level Baltimore offense since joining after Georgia, maximizing Lamar Jackson’s talent.
Robert Saleh, 49ers defensive coordinator
The former Jets head coach is a tough-minded leader who can handle a big-brand rebuild but would need a strong offensive coordinator.
Chris Shula, Rams defensive coordinator
Shula, grandson of Hall of Fame coach Don Shula and college teammate of Sean McVay, is expected to be a prime candidate this cycle.
Frank Smith, Dolphins offensive coordinator
A former Raiders assistant, Smith has been a strong candidate in recent cycles and knows the Las Vegas terrain.
Also
High-profile college coaches and former Packers and Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy could be in play. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski is a consideration after Cleveland moved on from him Monday. If the Dolphins make a change with Mike McDaniel, he would be a strong offensive coordinator candidate.
This is a developing story.
