Raiders Eye Seahawks’ Jeff Howard for Defensive Coordinator Role

The Las Vegas Raiders are entering a new era under head coach Klint Kubiak, fresh off a Super Bowl LX victory as the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator. As Kubiak begins assembling his staff, attention has turned to the defensive coordinator position, a pivotal role for the struggling franchise. Reports suggest that Jeff Howard, Seattle’s safeties coach, will be interviewed for the Raiders’ DC job, signaling Kubiak’s preference for familiar, trusted assistants.

Howard, 43, has a longstanding professional relationship with Kubiak, dating back to their time together in Minnesota and continuing in Seattle. Known for his work with the Super Bowl-winning Seahawks defense, Howard has developed a reputation as a detailed and effective coach who can adapt strategies for both veteran players and younger talent. His potential move to Las Vegas would mark a significant step in his coaching career.

Kubiak’s approach to staffing reflects his desire to bring trusted collaborators into key roles. Howard is not the only Seahawks assistant reportedly on his radar; wide receivers coach Frisman Jackson is also being considered for the Raiders’ offensive coordinator position. While no official hires have been made, the pattern underscores Kubiak’s tendency to rely on familiar coaching allies as he builds his new staff.

The Raiders’ 2025–26 season was difficult, with a 3–14 record that left the team in need of a fresh start. The combination of Kubiak’s arrival, substantial cap space, and the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft has given the franchise renewed optimism. Staffing decisions, particularly for coordinator roles, will be closely watched as the organization works to turn the page on a disappointing campaign.

1. Jeff Howard’s Coaching Background

Jeff Howard has steadily climbed the coaching ranks over the past two decades. He spent time with the Minnesota Vikings and later the Seattle Seahawks, where he developed a strong working relationship with Kubiak. Howard’s responsibilities in Seattle included overseeing the safeties and contributing to the defensive game plan that culminated in a Super Bowl LX title. Howard is praised for his attention to detail and ability to communicate complex defensive schemes in an understandable way to players. He has been instrumental in developing younger talent, helping safeties and defensive backs refine their coverage and tackling techniques. His coaching style emphasizes preparation, adaptability, and accountability, traits that align closely with Kubiak’s philosophy. As the Raiders pursue Howard, the opportunity to lead a defensive unit in a major NFL market represents a step forward in his career. If hired, he would inherit a roster in need of strategic guidance and play-calling expertise, allowing him to shape the defense to match his vision. Observers note that Howard’s experience with championship-caliber defenses may be particularly valuable for the Raiders, who are in the process of rebuilding. His knowledge of both scheme and personnel development could accelerate the team’s progress under Kubiak.

2. Kubiak Builds a Trusted Staff

Klint Kubiak’s hiring as head coach marks a clear shift in the Raiders’ approach to leadership. Following a 3–14 season, he has prioritized bringing in coaches with whom he has previously worked successfully, creating a staff with shared philosophy and familiarity. Wide receivers coach Frisman Jackson is another example of Kubiak seeking trusted collaborators. Jackson’s potential role as offensive coordinator highlights Kubiak’s preference for coaches who understand his offensive system and can implement it efficiently with minimal adjustment time. No final decisions have been made yet, as Kubiak is expected to interview multiple candidates for each key position. However, the Raiders’ emphasis on experienced, proven assistants indicates a strategy designed to accelerate the team’s turnaround and instill a winning culture. Staffing decisions in the coming weeks will influence not only team strategy but also player development and morale. The Raiders’ leadership recognizes that building a cohesive, competent staff is the first step in restoring competitiveness to the franchise.

3. Offseason Outlook for Las Vegas

Beyond coaching hires, the Raiders’ offseason will focus on roster construction and leveraging cap flexibility. With approximately $90 million in projected cap space, the team can target impactful free agents while retaining core players. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft provides an opportunity to address foundational needs, potentially shaping the roster for years to come. Kubiak and his staff will face the challenge of balancing immediate improvement with long-term development. The combination of high draft capital, experienced assistants, and strategic planning could help the Raiders rebound quickly from their 2025–26 struggles. Fans and analysts will closely watch the hiring of the defensive coordinator, as that role will influence the team’s identity and ability to compete in the AFC West. Howard’s potential appointment could signal a shift toward disciplined, adaptable defensive play under Kubiak’s leadership. The Raiders’ next steps in assembling a coaching staff and finalizing roster moves will set the tone for the 2026 season. Early indications suggest a methodical, experience-driven approach designed to restore credibility and competitiveness to the franchise.