RSS Raiders Team Notes

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders promote Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator, retain Joe Woods

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 01: Defensive Line coach Rob Leonard of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on October 01, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) | Getty Images

New Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak is starting to fill out his coaching staff, promoting Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator and keeping Joe Woods as defensive pass game coordinator, according to NFL Network.

More continuity: Joe Woods is staying with the #Raiders as their defensive pass game coordinator, sources say. https://t.co/GDu1mCiaok

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 14, 2026

Leonard has been with the Raiders since 2023, serving as the defensive line coach under former defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, who recently joined Mike McCarthy’s staff with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ahead of last season, Las Vegas added defensive run game coordinator to Leonard’s title. The Silver and Black’s defense ranked 17th in total rushing yards allowed but fourth in average yards per carry allowed.

Meanwhile, last year was Woods’ first with the Raiders. Previously, he was the Cleveland Browns (2020-2022) and New Orleans Saints (2023-2024) defensive coordinator, working on the same staff as Kubiak for one year in New Orleans. Las Vegas ranked 14th in passing yards allowed in 2025.

These are the second and third additions to Kubiak’s first coaching staff with the Raiders. Earlier this week, former San Diego Chargers and interim Tennessee Titans head coach Mike McCoy was named assistant head coach.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...raiders-coaching-staff-rob-leaonard-joe-woods

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders coaching staff: Meet secondary coach Matt Robinson

Jan 4, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; The Las Vegas Raiders shield logo at midfield at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

New Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak is continuing add to his coaching staff as he has hired Matt Robinson as his defensive backs coach according to ESPN.

Let’s get to know Robinson some more:

Another change: Giants assistant defensive line coach Matt Robinson, who left his job as Baltimore’s outside linebackers coach this off-season to go to New York, is now going to the Raiders as their secondary coach, per source. The Giants gave their permission, and supported…

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 15, 2026

Current job:

He was was by new New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh this offseason to be their assistant defensive line. Robinson was Baltimore Ravens’ outside linebackers coach under Harbaugh last season.

Age:

He is 32.

Coaching experience:

He has five seasons of NFL coaching experience all with the Baltimore Ravens.

Why the Raiders are interested:

Robinson worked with new Las Vegas defensive coordinator Rob Leonard in Baltimore in 2022. Robinson is another young coach on Klint Kubiak’s staff.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...ders-news-matt-robinson-defnesive-backs-coach

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

What could TCU safety Bud Clark bring to Las Vegas Raiders in 2026 NFL draft?

TEMPE, ARIZONA - SEPTEMBER 26: Safety Bud Clark #21 of the TCU Horned Frogs reacts after a defensive stop against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the first half at Mountain America Stadium on September 26, 2025 in Tempe, Arizona. The Sun Devils defeated the Horned Frogs 27-24. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Las Vegas Raiders should be in the free safety market this offseason, and TCU’s Bud Clark made quite a name for himself at the Senior Bowl a few weeks ago. Clark’s ball skills stood out in Mobile, collecting several interceptions and PBUs during the one-on-ones and full team periods of practice throughout the week to help give his 2026 NFL draft stock a boost.

Granted, that wasn’t much of a surprise, seeing as the former Horned Frog racked up 15 interceptions and 21 passes defended over his last four seasons in college. Adding to that, Clark was tied for fourth among Power 4 safeties (minimum 113 coverage snaps) with seven forced incompletions at a relatively high 18 percent clip, while also finishing tied for eighth with four interceptions, according to Pro Football Focus.

But the TCU product is more than just a ball hawk on the back end of the defense. He’s coming off a strong campaign as a run defender, earning an 83.1 PFF run defense grade that ranked in the top 20 for Power 4 safeties.

With that in mind, let’s flip on the tape and see what the safety prospect could bring to the Raiders.

Bud Clark's ability to provide run support from depth is an underrated aspect of his game

-Recognizes speed op
-Uses burst to beat WR's block
-Breaks down and makes a nice open-field tackle for a TFL#NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/kVmRigqHPZ

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 10, 2026

We’ll start with a good example of how Clark can provide run support while playing from depth, which is an underrated element of his game, in my opinion.

West Virginia is running a speed option to the wide side of the field with Clark lined up over the slot receiver in a three-by-one formation. The Mountaineers are trying to test the Horned Frogs’ defensive backs’ abilities to play the run with their playcall, but that plan blows up in the offense’s face.

Clark recognizes the play design and uses good timing and acceleration to defeat the wide receiver’s block by waiting until the receiver starts breaking down to crash downhill. Then, the safety’s speed comes into play, and he does a decent job of swiping the receiver’s hand away to keep his momentum going. Finally, he makes a nice open-field tackle by breaking down and wrapping up to come up with the tackle for loss.

This is what happens when a defensive back has good instincts and the speed/athleticism to take advantage.

2nd and 5, Clark is quick to read power and comes from depth to make a tackle for a 2-yard again and set up 3rd and 3 pic.twitter.com/0NVMh67JyJ

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 10, 2026

Building on the previous clip, TCU faces a more traditional run play with Iowa State dialing up power out of 12 personnel. Clark starts the play lined up about eight and a half yards deep and on the hashmark. However, once he sees the second tight end shift to the strong side of the formation, creating an unbalanced line, he starts to creep toward the line of scrimmage, likely expecting a run play.

Post-snap, the safety’s pre-snap read was correct, so he crashes downhill to get involved in the run fit by filling the alley and making the tackle for a two-yard gain. That’s perfect run support while playing from depth, as it sets up the defense with a chance to get off the field on third and three.

Bud Clark with a great open-field tackle against the screen #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/QYyNBRJyMK

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 10, 2026

Moving on to his coverage skills, Clark’s open-field tackling continues to stand out.

TCU is bringing the heat on this play, blitzing the outside linebacker and nickelback off the edge. But West Virginia has a great play call for it, running an RPO with a screen to the slot receiver, forcing the safety to come downhill and tackle in space. The problem is that Clark perfectly executes his assignment, recognizing the screen, crashing downhill with speed to close the gap and breaking down to make the open-field tackle.

The Mountaineers got the matchup they wanted, as the receiver had plenty of space to make the defensive back miss and get the first down. But Clark made the play to get the defense a win and put the offense behind the sticks.

Bud Clark takes a big gamble here by undercutting the post route as a deep safety, but his ball skills make the bet pay off with a PBU #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/fU4uG82BOU

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 10, 2026

Shifting gears to the former Horned Frog’s biggest strength and how he’ll make his money in the NFL: ball skills in coverage.

SMU runs play-action and sends the slot receiver on a post-route, which is a good play-call for TCU’s Tampa 2 coverage. The middle of the field should be open since the Tampa dropper/linebacker freezes for a second with the run fake, and the defense is in a split safety coverage. However, Clark recognizes the slot receiver’s route and does a good job of flipping his hips to play the post.

From there, he uses his speed to close on the receiver and get in a position to make a play on the ball. The safety takes a big gamble by undercutting the route instead of staying on top of it, but an impressive vertical jump makes the bet pay off by forcing the incompletion with a PBU.

That being said, Clark definitely likes to take risks in coverage and will get burned because of it. Later in this game, SMU ran a similar play and the quarterback managed to layer the pass over his head for a touchdown. So, toeing the line between gambling and being reckless is something the TCU product will need to work on at the next level.

Bud Clark with perfect coverage on the slot fade to come up with the INT #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/vgEUMkLZrd

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 10, 2026

This time, Clark is in man coverage against a slot fade route from Iowa State and plays it perfectly. He’s in off-coverage and parks himself about eight yards past the line of scrimmage to be in a position to drive on a short route or run with a deep one.

Right before breaking toward the sideline, the receiver gives a head fake to the inside. However, Clark isn’t fooled and does a good job of using his hands to get attached to the receiver and stay in phase on the slot fade. With air-tight coverage, he looks over his outside shoulder to locate the ball in the air and comes down with the interception.

That’s excellent man coverage skills and strong hands from the safety to come up with a momentum-changing play.

Bud Clark digging out a pick off a PBU #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/n3FOxmgiPP

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 10, 2026

Finally, capitalizing on tips and overthrows is how safeties make their money in the NFL, and this is a great example of that from Clark.

TCU is running Cover 3, where he’s the single-high safety against a three-by-one formation from Iowa State with the trips receivers lined up in the boundary. Post-snap, Clark tries to read the quarterback’s eyes and starts moving toward the single receiver on the wide side of the field. However, the quarterback doesn’t want to test the one-on-one matchup against off coverage and works to his second read, the dig route.

Clark is slightly out of position after working toward the single receiver, but he recovers by stopping on the hash mark and diving to dig out the interception after the cornerback breaks up the pass at the catch point. So, Clark does get away with being a little over-aggressive on this rep. However, it does highlight his play-making ability on the backend of the defense.

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As of Feb. 10, Clark ranks 106th overall and as a fourth-round pick on NFL Mock Draft Database’s consensus big board. If that remains the case over the next couple of months, he’d be a great candidate for the Raiders with pick 102 and may end up being an option in the third round at 67.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/nfl-draft/122003/las-vegas-raiders-2026-nfl-draft-tcu-bud-clark

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders to add Rick Dennison to coaching staff

ORCHARD PARK, NY - AUGUST 29: Offensive line coach Rick Dennison of the Minnesota Vikings walks the sideline during the second half of a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on August 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Buffalo defeats Minnesota 27-23. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to add former Seattle Seahawks run game coordinator and senior offensive advisor to Klink Kubiak’s coaching staff, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.

The #Raiders are expected to hire #Seahawks run game coordinator and senior offensive advisor Rick Dennison, sources tell @CBSSports.

Dennison has 30 years of NFL coaching experience, including as an offensive coordinator with the Bills, Broncos and Texans. pic.twitter.com/p8Zy0ezEGU

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) February 17, 2026

Dennison brings 30 years of NFL coaching experience to the Raiders. His first coaching job was in 1995 as an offensive assistant with the Denver Broncos, working for Klint’s father, Gary Kubiak, who was the offensive coordinator in Denver at the time. Dennison coached for the Broncos until 2009, serving as the offensive coordinator from 2006 to 2008, before joining Gary’s coaching staff as the Houston Texans’ OC from 2010 to 2013. So, he knows the Kubiak family well.

The well-tenured coach also has had stints with the Baltimore Ravens (2014), another run as the Broncos’ offensive coordinator (2015-2016), Buffalo Bills (2017), New York Jets (2018), and worked with Klint during their time with the Minnesota Vikings (2019-2021), New Orleans Saints (2024) and last season in Seattle.

During his time in the NFL, Dennison has won four Super Bowls, three with the Broncos and one a little more than a week ago in Seattle. Additionally, the Seahawks ranked 10th in rushing yards last season with Kubiak and Dennison calling the shots.

Zenitz did not specify what Dennison’s role will be in Las Vegas. Silver and Black Pride will update this story when his job title becomes public.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...as-vegas-raiders-coaching-staff-rick-dennison

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders hire Travis Smith as defensive line coach

INGLEWOOD, CA - NOVEMBER 30: Las Vegas Raiders helmet during the Las Vegas Raiders vs Los Angeles Chargers game on November 30, 2025, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

New Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak has been busy filling out his coaching staff over the last several days, including hiring Travis Smith as the Raiders’ defensive line coach on Monday, according to ESPN’s Ryan McFadden.

#Raiders continue to fill out their coaching staff ahead of the combine. They have named Travis Smith as DL coach. He was the defensive run game coordinator for Tennessee in 2025.

— Ryan McFadden (@ryanmcfadden_) February 17, 2026

Smith was the Tennessee Titans’ defensive run game coordinator last season. Tennessee’s run defense ranked 15th in total yards allowed. He also helped defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons make his fourth Pro Bowl and first First-Team All-Pro selection. The coach was listed as a senior defensive assistant/pass rush specialist on new Titans’ head coach Robert Saleh’s staff, according to the Titans’ website, before receiving this opportunity in Las Vegas

Prior to Tennessee, Smith was the Chicago Bears’ defensive line coach from 2022 to 2024, helping defensive end Montez Sweat make the one and only Pro Bowl appearance of his career after the team traded for him midseason in 2023. Sweat had six sacks and four TFLs in nine games with the Bears that season.

This will be Smith’s second stint with the Raiders. He spent 10 seasons with the club, from 2012 to 2021, working his way up from defensive assistant coach to assistant defensive line coach before leaving for Chicago. He was hired by Dennis Allen in Oakland, who Kubiak worked under with the New Orleans Saints. This also means Kubiak will be the sixth head coach Smith has worked for with the Silver and Black — Allen, Tony Sparano, Jack Del Rio and Rich Bisaccia.

Heading into the 2026 season, Smith inherits a defensive line that was coached by now defensive coordinator Rob Leonard and has a lot of question marks, including whether Maxx Crosby is staying in Las Vegas. Beyond Crosby’s situation, the Raiders have several young defensive linemen who need to be developed: Jonah Laulu, Thomas Booker (restricted free agent), Tyree Wilson, Tonka Hemingway and JJ Pegueus, to name a few.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...las-vegas-raiders-coaching-staff-travis-smith

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders had reason to keep Joe Woods on staff

May 11, 2024; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator Joe Woods looks on during the rookie minicamp at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Role: Defensive Pass Game Coordinator

Previous Role: Defensive Pass Game Coordinator

Previous Team: Las Vegas Raiders

Age: 55

The Las Vegas Raiders made their second coaching move, retaining pass game coordinator Joe Woods under new defensive coordinator Rob Leonard. Woods, previously worked with head coach Klint Kubiak during their time together with the New Orleans Saints, where Woods was the DC and Kubiak the OC. Additionally, the two crossed paths before with the Denver Broncos, and Woods also worked for another Kubiak, Gary in that time. The former Illinois State CB has carved a strong role for himself in the NFL working from a college linebackers coach to an NFL DC.

Raiders are retaining Joe Woods as defensive pass-game coordinator, per sources.

New head coach Klint Kubiak going with continuity with DC Rob Leonard’s promotion and Woods, who worked with Kubiak in New Orleans. pic.twitter.com/YVgI5YzhR6

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 14, 2026

Experience​

Woods started his career bouncing around the low college level from 1992-2000 as a GA, DB coach, and LB coach in various roles with various universities. He made a jump to the FBS level in 2001 with Western Michigan as their DB coach from 2001-2003 before getting a start in the NFL. Woods worked with the Buccaneers from 2004-2005 as a quality control coach, before heading to the Vikings till 2013 as their DB coach. Woods then joined the Oakland Raiders in 2014 as a DB coach, was with the Broncos from 2015-2016 as a DB coach, and finally got his coordinator crack in 2017-2018 as the Broncos DC. Woods was fired from Denver then went to the 49ers in 2019 as their DB coach, before Cleveland hired him as their DC for 2020-2022. Woods left Cleveland for New Orleans as their DC till 2024 before being fired and landing in Las Vegas for 2025.

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*Woods tenure was extensive from the 2006-2013 range with the Vikings, due to the nature of the NFL and how quickly things change, adapt, and move I won’t be touching on experience more than a decade old, for any of these unless it’s a very key thing to note. That said Woods did produce over 10 Pro Bowlers in his near decade with the Vikings*

Denver Broncos (2015-2018)​

Woods first year with Denver was about as good as things can get, going 12-4 and winning a super bowl. The Broncos saw two DB’s earn Pro Bowl honors with Aqib Talib (3 INT, 2 TD, 13 PBU) & Chris Harris Jr (2 INT, TD, 6 PBU) being among the consensus top corner duos in the NFL. Additionally, fellow DB David Bruton posted 2 interceptions, 49 tackles, and 7 PBU in rotational relief while Bradley Roby, Josh Bush, Shiloh Keo, and TJ Ward also produced quality play in diverse roles. Woods saw all but two of his top 6 DBs allow a QBR less than 85 in 2015, with three allowing lower than 65. In 2016, Broncos opposing passers tossed just 13 touchdowns to 15 interceptions across the entire season. His unit saw three Pro Bowlers with Darian Stewart logging 3 interceptions, 6 breakups, 68 tackles, and a forced fumble in 16 starts. Additionally, corners Aqib Talib (3 interceptions, 12 PBU) & Chris Harris Jr (2 interceptions, 11 PBU) were undoubtedly the best duo in the league allowing a combined 51.7 QBR and both earning first team All-Pro honors. In addition, safeties Bradley Roby and Justin Simmons each logged 2 interceptions and 6 or more breakups with TJ Ward and Will Parks combining for two interceptions and 12 pass breakups. The Broncos didn’t have a DB allow a QBR over 88 the entire season.

yards allowed per coverage snap (min. 180 coverage snaps) for cornerbacks this season:

1. jack jones, 0.46
2. joey porter jr., 0.56
3. eric stokes, 0.58
4. aj terrell, 0.59
5. tre'davious white, 0.60
6. pat surtain, 0.61
7. donte jackson, 0.61
8. chidobe awuzie, 0.65 pic.twitter.com/b5MOYoTZ0D

— Tej Seth (@tejfbanalytics) November 19, 2025

In his first season as defensive coordinator, Woods saw his unit rank 3rd in total yardage but 22nd in points. The teams rush defense finished 5th and their pass unit finished 7th. They ranked 8th in EPA, 24th in interceptions, and 26th in turnovers generated. Denver saw Aqib Talib (interception, 7 PBU) and Von Miller ( 10s acks, 17 TFL, 23 QB Hits) both earn pro bowl honors while veterans Darian Stewart, Chris Harris, Justin Simmons, Will Parks, Bradley Roby, Brandon Marshall, and Todd Davis also turned in strong seasons. The Broncos DB room continued to be their greatest success and heart of the defensive unit. His second season saw the Broncos dip down to 22nd in yards, 13th in points, while 5th in takeaways. The unit was 17th in EPA, top 12 in majority of other statistics, but ranked 17th in rushing defense and 15th in passing defense. The Broncos were led up front by Bradley Chubb and Von Miller who turned in a combined 26.5 sacks, 28 TFL, and 47 QB hits. Additionally, the team saw good play from Chris Harris (3 INT, 10 PBU, Pro Bowl), Justin Simmons (3 INT, 4 PBU), and Darian Stewart (2 INT, 5 PBU) while other veterans played key roles. The Broncos pass rush increased dramatically, but their dip in defensive coverages and leading the league in missed tackles pushed Woods out.

San Francisco 49ers (2019)​

The Broncos fired Woods, who immediately landed with the 49ers, and saw their defensive unit rank top 10 in majority of passing stats and finishing 9th overall vs the pass allowing just 2707 yards and 20 touchdowns across the season. Wood’s unit was lead by All-Pro CB Richard Sherman who turned in 3 interceptions and 11 PBU in 2019, while corner K’Waun Williams also logged 2 interceptions and 2 PBU. The team saw development from corners Ahkello Witherspoon and Emmanuel Mosely along with veteran safety Jimmie Ward continuing to play at a good level with Jaquiski Tartt. The 49ers DB room was young, but showcased upswings in talents and pivoted Woods to the Browns going forward after a year off.

Cleveland Browns (2020-2022)​

The 2020 Browns went 11-5 under first year head coach Kevin Stefanski, and things looked extremely promising. Wood’s unit ranked 17th in yards, 21st in points but finished 10th in rushing though 22nd in passing. Additionally, the Browns defense was 18th in EPA, the highest finish in nearly 8 years. Cleveland was lead by, no surprise, Myles Garrett who turned in 12 sacks, 10 TFL, and 19 QB hits with 5 FF. Additionally, veteran Dbs Terrance Marshall, MJ Stewart, Karl Joseph, and Ronnie Harrison delivered above expectations and former top pick Denzel Ward allowed just a 68.9 QBR and turned in 2 interceptions and 20 pass breakups cementing himself as an elite NFL cornerback. Additionally veterans Larry Ogunjobi, Shedrick Redwin, Sione Takitaki, BJ Goodson, and Malcolm Smith were consistent producers with a defense lacking a weakspot, but also void of talent. The 2021 Browns faired worse record wise, but Wood’s unit finished 5th in EPA, 5th in yards allowed, 12th in points allowed, 21st in takeaways, 9th vs the run, and 8th vs the pass. Cleveland saw two pro bowlers with Denzel Ward 93 INT, 10 PBU), and again Myles Garrett (16 sacks, 17 TFL). Veteran safety John Johnson added 3 interceptions and 8 PBU with Greedy Williams another 2 and 10 PBU. The Browns also saw consistent play from safety Grant Delpit, a rookie, and veteran Ronnie Harrison. The defense lacked juice up front after Garrett and Clowney, though linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah proved to be a possible future DPOY player as a rookie. The Browns defensive backs continued their strength going forward with a relatively low talent level outside Ward.

Some Greg Newsome II plays from this year…
I love this trade because of the contract for one and he fits the scheme for two. He can follow the #1, gets hit helmet dirty in the run game and he's best in man cov. pic.twitter.com/a5n0M25yas

— Fitz (@LaurieFitzptrck) October 9, 2025

In 2022, his unit ranked 14th in points, 20th in yards, 20th in takeaways, 27th vs the rush, and 5th vs the pass. Overall, they finished just 12th in EPA and turned in a decent season that saw development from Koramoah, Delpit, Ward, and Jordan Elliott. Delpit and Ward combined for 7 interceptions and 25 breakups with veteran linebackers Deion Jones and Tony Fields being consistent. Veteran safety John Johnson turned in strong performances, but Cleveland’s defense was inconsistent, lacked pass rush despite having Myles Garrett while also relying on veterans with corners Greg Newsome & Martin Emerson not developing as Cleveland had hoped in addition to other veteran additions.

New Orleans Saints (2023-2024)​

In 2023, after his firing from the Browns, Woods landed in New Orleans turning out the 12th ranked defense in 2023 with the Saints ranking 15th vs the run and 10th vs the pass. Additionally, New Orleans finished 4th in takeaways and 9th in EPA. The team was led by defensive backs Tyraan Mathieu, Paulson Adebo, Alontae Taylor, and Mracus Maye who turned in a combined 12 interceptions and 43 pass breakups. Additionally, Adebo and Taylor both allowed below a 80 QBR on the season. Fellow cornerback Isaac Yiadom, allowed a 78.8 QBR and added another 14 breakups. The team saw good production and development in linebackers Pete Warner, Zack Baun, and veteran Demario Davis finished as an All-Pro. The Saints pass rush was inconsistent and struggled to make much movement logging just 34 sacks. In 2024, New Orleans finished with the 30th ranked defense in yards, 21st in points, and 26th vs the run, 18th vs the pass, and 20th in takeaways while having the 19th ranked unit in EPA. New Orleans prevented passing touchdowns, but struggled vs the run and in the end got Woods fired again along with head coach Dennis Allen. The unit saw development in Alontae Taylor, Paulson Adebo, rookie pass rusher Bryan Breese, and Carl Granderson but other additions Payton Turner, Nathan Shephard, Khalen Saunders, and Willie Gay underperformed though the defensive backs remained strong anchored by the two above, and Tyrann Mathieu again.

WATCH Saints CB Alontae Taylor stay square in coverage, close down on the hip and successfully use his off hand to deny this pass. pic.twitter.com/jDkXRxKPyV

— DB Tips – Chad Wilson (@dbtips101) February 20, 2025

Las Vegas Raiders (2025)​

The Raiders 2025 defense wasn’t great, ranking 17th in EPA but Wood’s cornerback unit finished ranked highly with Eric Stokes seeing a massive bounceback season finishing top 25 in every cornerback statistic outside PBU and interceptions. Stokes was top 15 in EPA/target and separation rate allowed while rookie Darien Porter saw playtime towards the end of the year, and continued to develop. Stokes was a key free agent signing and under Woods showed a ton of development back to his first round pedigree, while Porter allowed a sub 80 QBR and posted 6 breakups as a rookie. For the first time in nearly a decade, the Raiders starting CB duo allowed less than 600 yards and a combined QBR lower than 80. Veteran journeyman Kyu Blu Kelly turned in three interceptions and 6 PBU before a torn ACL, though the veteran also was near the bottom in total yards allowed as well. UDFA Greedy Vance saw playtime, but overall Las Vegas stuck to their core of Porter, Kelly, and Stokes.

Philosophy​

Woods is a clear cut defensive backs coach, he’s not exceptional when running a whole unit and his defensive backs due to tend to struggle at times when he’s diverting attention to a whole unit. The veteran defensive coordinator had issues adapting his system, and was consistently beat late at times. Overall, Woods is a zone heavy defensive coordinator, focusing on two high shells with a C3 look underneath. Additionally, he does preach aggressiveness and an ability to attack the ball in coverage, which often led to his units all ranking inside the top 8 for PBU in each season since 2012, including three first place finished. Woods’ units are focused on keeping the ball in front but attacking downhill to make a play on the ball as well, though his aggressive coaching style did get him beat over the top as well allowing the 6th most explosive plays from 2021-2024 with his units. Woods overall does fit into the realm of coaches Leonard has worked under, and who’s scheme he will deploy. One thing is fluid, with Woods and his track record of developing CBs and limiting penalties has stuck with him. Additionally, Woods does implement aspects of true press coverage which is a far look from his zone feels, and it can limit his defensive backs but speaks to the aggressive playstyle he intends to implement. Las Vegas saw a small uptick in man coverage for 2025, and that should happen again under Rob Leonard.

Players to Watch, Connections:​

Eric Stokes is a standout, and the Raiders are going to push to keep him. Additionally, Saints CB Alontae Taylor, who saw a down year without Woods, is slated to hit the market and could be a good low cost, high upside signing for Las Vegas this off-season. Additionally, Saints linebacker Demario Davis is scheduled to be a free agent, and Las Vegas could be looking to address their poor LB position, though Davis and the Raiders don’t have a great fit together. In addition, Browns safety Ronnie Hickman is someone to watch as the former UDFA is a restricted free agent but Las Vegas showed the willingness to attempt at signing RFA’s last off-season. Linebacker, Willie Gay is a free agent this off-season and could look to rejoin forces with Joe Woods and address the Raiders lack of LB depth. Veteran corner Paulson Adebo, who signed with the Giants last off-season, could be a free agent target given his experience with Woods if he’s released or traded this off-season by New York. Additionally, cornerback Greg Newsome is slated to hit the open market this year, and his issues in man coverage could be a thing to monitor, though the NFL has seen former first round picks bounce back well.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...41/las-vegas-raiders-coaching-hires-joe-woods

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders NFL Draft Q&A with SB Nation’s Doug Farrar

In just about two months, the Las Vegas Raiders will find out who their next franchise quarterback is.

We all know at this point that Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza is the likely first overall pick, and that Mendoza will find his new home in Las Vegas with the Raiders. But beyond that, what does it all mean? What attributes does Mendoza bring to the NFL, and is there enough to give the Raiders what they need? Furthermore, how will the Raiders’ new coaching staff, led by head coach and offensive shot-caller Klint Kubiak, give Mendoza the tools he needs to succeed?

It’s a good time to discuss these things with SB Nation NFL analyst Doug Farrar. Doug wrote about the game’s hidden gems and Secret Superstars throughout the 2025 season, and as a Seattle resident with a focus on the Seahawks, he has a specific understanding of how Seattle’s former offensive coordinator helped his team win Super Bowl LX with Sam Darnold. Doug is also preparing for the scouting combine, where he’ll be next week, so he’s ready to take all your general draft questions as they may impact your favorite team.

Leave your questions for Doug in the comments below, and we’ll go live with the Q&A tomorrow, Thursday, February 19 at 9:00 a.m. PST.​

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...g-farrar-ferndando-mendoza-first-overall-pick

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders reportedly hire Ronell Williams as linebackers coach

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 5: Defensive quality control coach Ronell Williams of the Chicago Bears leads a drill during the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 5, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Las Vegas Raiders have reportedly added Ronell Williams to their coaching staff as the linebackers coach, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Raiders named Ronell Williams their Linebackers Coach and Al Holcomb their Senior Defensive Assistant.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 19, 2026

Let’s get to know Williams a little more.

Previous job:

He was the Philadelphia Eagles’ assistant linebackers coach/defensive quality control coach for the last two seasons, previously serving as the Eagles’ nickelbacks coach in 2023.

Age:

He turned 34 earlier this month.

Coaching experience:

Williams is still a young coach, getting his first job at Division III Widener University as the linebackers coach in 2016. Then, he spent two seasons as a graduate assistant/defensive analyst at Temple before breaking into the NFL as a defensive quality control coach with the Chicago Bears in 2019. Williams spent four years in Chicago before becoming the Eagles’ nickels coach.

Klint Kubiak ties:

Kubiak and Williams have never worked together, nor has Williams worked with recently promoted defensive coordinator Rob Leonard. However, new offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko was the Bears’ quarterbacks coach during Williams’ last year in Chicago. Different sides of the ball, but there is some familiarity within the coaching staff.

Why the Raiders are interested:

Williams also interviewed with the Dallas Cowboys this offseason, so he appears to be an up-and-coming position coach in the NFL. Also, he has a couple of years of experience working with former Bears and current Eagles’ defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, who is widely considered one of the best defensive play-callers in the league. Additionally, the Raiders need linebacker help and Williams could help lure Nakobe Dean in free agency, since they spent the last two seasons together in Philadelphia.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...-vegas-raiders-coaching-staff-ronell-williams

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Las Vegas Raiders reportedly hire Omar Young as running backs coach

Aug 9, 2025; Iowa running backs coach Omar Young looks on during the Hawkeyes Kids Day NCAA football open practice at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Cress for the Des Moines Register | Joseph Cress/For the Register / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

New Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak has added someone to his coaching staff to work with 2025 first-round pick Ashton Jeanty, reportedly hiring Iowa running backs coach Omar Young to the same position in Las Vegas, per CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz and David Eickholt.

The #Raiders are set to hire University of Iowa running backs coach Omar Young, sources tell me and @DavidEickholt.

Before Iowa, Young worked at the NFL level with the Patriots and Bears. pic.twitter.com/TQBUOKAkDT

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) February 18, 2026

Let’s get to know Young better.

Previous job:

He was the Hawkeyes’ running backs coach for one season (2025).

Age:

Young is 42 years old and turns 43 in September. Also, he was born in Oakland and went to high school in Berkeley.

Coaching experience:

Young’s experience has primarily been in the college ranks, including last year, but he has been an NFL coach for six seasons. His first NFL job was with the Cleveland Browns as an offensive assistant coach in 2015, then he spent two years (2017-2018) with the Green Bay Packers as an offensive quality control coach before taking the same position with the Chicago Bears in 2022. Young became the Bears’ wide receivers coach and assistant quarterbacks coach in 2023, and was an offensive assistant coach for the New England Patriots in 2024.

Kubiak ties:

Kubiak and Young have never worked together, but the latter did work with the Raiders’ new offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko in Chicago, when Janocko was the quarterbacks coach.

Why the Raiders are interested:

Young has a lot of coaching experience at several levels, ranging from the junior college ranks to the NFL. Iowa ran a lot of wide zone this past season, so he has some familiarity coaching running backs in Kubiak’s rushing scheme. The Hawkeyes rushed for 2,300 yards and 4.8 yards per carry as a team in 2025, with running back Kamari Moutlon leading the way by racking up 878 yards (5.2 ypc) and five touchdowns. It also helps that Young spent two seasons with Janocko. Clearly, Kubiak and Janocko are comfortable with the Oakland native’s ability to develop Jeanty in their offense.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...coaching-staff-omar-young-running-backs-coach

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Travis Smith’s biggest challenge as Las Vegas Raiders defensive line coach

Nov 30, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) reacts during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Travis Smith is no stranger to the Silver & Black.

His NFL coaching career began with the Oakland variant in 2012 as a defensive assistant and continued on 10 years with his final season a 2021 campaign with the Las Vegas version.

And after three seasons as the Chicago Bears defensive line coach (2022-24) and a one-year stint as the Tennessee Titans defensive run game coordinator, the 40-year-old Smith returns to the Las Vegas Raiders as defensive line boss. He joins the staff being assembled by new head coach Klint Kubiak and Smith slots into the defensive line boss spot vacated by Rob Leonard, who got a well-earned promotion to defensive coordinator.

Smith’s position in Las Vegas marks the fourth time he’s been given a specific task or position group to oversee. In Oakland during the 2017 season, he was the outside linebackers coach and from 2019-21 he was the assistant defensive line coach learning under Rod Marinelli for the latter two years. Then came his three-year stint in Chicago as defensive line boss and the lone season as Tennessee’s defensive run-game specialist.

Smith’s Raiders return means more direct hands-on work with the defensive line room and with his predecessor now leading the entire defense, he’ll work in unison with Leonard.

But as with every coach that Kubiak brings in (himself, too), there’s a distinct challenge that awaits. And for Smith, the item that looms largest is defensive end Maxx Crosby, specifically, the if he stays or if he goes, conundrum.

@RapSheet

With a month before the start of the new league year, the story we're watching closely is what's going on with Maxx Crosby and #RaiderNation:#NFL pic.twitter.com/cViZIEjxgr

— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) February 17, 2026

Crosby has been in the Raiders’ building early in the morning getting his work in. And when he’s appeared on a number of interviews, the well-compensated pass rusher is sporting Raiders gear.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Raiders don’t want to trade the 28-year-old (29 on Aug. 22) defensive end and if the team contemplated shipping Crosby off, it would take a Micah Parsons type compensation package which is two first-round picks and a player in return.

But what is absent is the emphatic response of: I don’t want to be traded.

Crosby is letting his actions speak for themselves and isn’t going to comment further, it seems.

Thus, Smith must operate under assumption he’ll have elite No. 98 not only creating chaos against both the pass and run this coming season, but being the lead-by-example type since the completion of his rookie season back in 2019. Crosby paced the Raiders with 10 sacks along with 73 total tackles and a team-leading 28 stops for loss this past season. No other defender reached the five-sack mark in 2025, so Crosby’s departure would leave a gaping void for Smith and Leonard to try and fill.

That’s the elephant in the room. But as mentioned above, coaching up and developing the entire defensive line room is quite the task for Smith, too.

#Raiders DE Tyree Wilson after a career day vs the Chiefs with 2 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and a safety:

"The big thing (for me) is focus. Know what's coming and just attack… To end the season on a win against an AFC West opponent is a great feeling."

Full post-game scrum pic.twitter.com/fkJvxOweY9

— Nick Walters (@nickwalt) January 5, 2026

And the Raiders’ decisions on in-house free agents, free agents that hit the open market in mid-March, the draft in April, and free agency after can all help with Smith’s job as defensive line coach. Defensive end Malcolm Koonce was a distant second in terms of sacks with 4.5 this past season. Recovering from a knee injury that wiped out his 2024 campaign, Koonce showed flashes of the same pass rusher later in 2025. But he’s an unrestricted free agent.

Then there’s Tyree Wilson, the seventh overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-5 and 263-pound edge rusher has worked outside and in on the defensive line racking up four sacks along with 35 total tackles with eight tackles for loss in Year 3. Wilson’s usage and snap counts were a career-low in 2025 with 463 snaps compared to 525 in 2024 and 493 his rookie yar in 2023.

Wilson enters the fourth — and potential final year — of his rookie contract. As a first rounder, Las Vegas does have a fifth-year option available for Wilson. The decision on whether or not the Raiders exercise that option arrives this May. That would lock-in Wilson for the 2027 season at a high-value rate that has yet to be determined. For context, first-round edge rushers from the 2022 draft had fifth-year options in the range of $15 to $17 million. At that range, that’s exorbitant for a defensive end that doesn’t have the production or snaps.

Then there’s the continued progression of defensive tackles Jonah Laulu (25 years old, 51 total tackles, four sacks, eight tackles for loss in 2025), Tonka Hemingway (24, nine total tackles, four sacks, five stops for loss), JJ Pegues (24, 11 total tackles, one tackle for loss). There’s also veterans Adam Bulter (31, 50 total tackles, one sack, three stops for loss) and Thomas Booker (26, 44 total tackles, one stop for loss, seven quarterback hits).

New TDL just dropped with@MHolder95, featuring the film review of the loss to the Dallas Cowboys.

Predictable run game
Offensive line
Tonka Hemingway

Check it below

The play below is a great example of the run game right now pic.twitter.com/44gPVXAvI9

— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) November 20, 2025

Smith’s high-energy, attention to detail, and focus on the daily grind is a good addition to Kubiak’s staff in Las Vegas. It clicks with Leonard’s own coaching style and the double whammy of technique and effort focus will help the defense overall.

It’ll be intriguing to see how the coaching styles and energy between Smith, Leonard and the rest of the coaching staff meshes in Kubiak’s initial season as a head coach. But Smith does bring valuable coaching experience of his 14-year career so far. In 2025, the Titans run defense ranked 15th in yards allowed (1,948) and 17th in average yards per carry allowed (4.3).

Over Smith’s coaching tenure, he’s had a hand in development of key Raiders rushers such as Khalil Mack, Yannick Ngakoue, and Crosby in assistant roles. Now Smith will have full reins in his return to Silver & Black. Oh, and he’s also had to adapt to a sudden departure of a star pass rusher — when Mack was traded to the Bears. So if Crosby is shipped out, he’s no stranger to missing an elite defender.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...nge-as-las-vegas-raiders-defensive-line-coach