Raiders Rehire Mike Sullivan as Quarterbacks Coach Ahead of No. 1 Draft Pick

The Las Vegas Raiders have had an offseason full of twists and reversals. After a failed trade for Maxx Crosby and shifts in their coaching staff, the Raiders have now reversed course on a key hire, bringing back veteran quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan.

With the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, the Raiders are widely expected to select Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner who led Indiana to its first national title. This move heightens the importance of having a seasoned mentor to guide a young franchise signal-caller.

Sullivan, 59, had recently been set to join Rutgers but the Raiders doubled back to secure him for their coaching staff. His experience spans multiple NFL teams, and he is well-versed in developing both elite and emerging quarterbacks.

For a franchise eager to rebound from a disappointing 3-14 campaign, adding Sullivan signals a commitment to quarterback development and long-term stability under center.

1. Sullivan’s Return to Las Vegas

Sullivan brings a wealth of NFL coaching experience, having previously served as a quarterbacks coach for the New York Giants (twice), Denver Broncos, and Pittsburgh Steelers. His last NFL role came in 2024 as a senior offensive assistant with the Steelers. Throughout his career, Sullivan has worked closely with accomplished quarterbacks, including Eli Manning, Ben Roethlisberger, and Case Keenum. These experiences give him insight into nurturing talent at all stages of a player’s career. Initially, Sullivan had interviewed with the Raiders weeks earlier, but the team’s staff announcement excluded a quarterbacks coach. He appeared ready to reunite with former Buccaneers head coach Greg Schiano at Rutgers before Las Vegas reversed its decision. This hiring illustrates the Raiders’ urgency to provide strong leadership for their future quarterback and solidify the offensive coaching staff ahead of the draft.

2. Quarterback Development a Top Priority

The Raiders are entering the draft with the clear goal of selecting a cornerstone quarterback, a need amplified by a chaotic 2025 season. Last year, multiple players, including Geno Smith, Kenny Pickett, and Aidan O’Connell, rotated under center, but none were able to stabilize the offense. A 3-14 finish and a fourth consecutive missed playoff opportunity underscored the importance of pairing a young quarterback with a proven coach. Sullivan’s track record of managing NFL signal-callers positions him as the ideal mentor for Mendoza or any other rookie quarterback the Raiders may draft. Effective quarterback coaching will be central to Las Vegas’ plan to turn the team around, with Sullivan expected to implement structured guidance, improve decision-making, and cultivate consistency at the position. For a team in transition, Sullivan’s experience in guiding both veteran stars and developing prospects will be critical to building continuity and confidence in the quarterback room.

3. Preparing for the Future in Las Vegas

Sullivan’s return is as much about preparation as it is about development. With the draft looming, he will immediately work to establish rapport with the incoming quarterback and evaluate how best to tailor the offense around their strengths. The timing of his hiring gives Sullivan a chance to impact draft planning and integrate offensive concepts that align with the franchise’s long-term vision. For the Raiders, having a coach familiar with the pressures of leading an NFL offense ensures that their top selection has the best possible support. Beyond Mendoza, Sullivan will provide guidance to the current quarterbacks, helping the team maintain competitiveness and readiness in case injuries or performance issues arise. Depth at the position is essential, and his expertise will benefit both starters and backups. Las Vegas enters the offseason with clear priorities: secure a franchise quarterback, reinforce the coaching staff, and leverage Sullivan’s mentorship to build a foundation for sustained success.