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Henderson Today
By the People, for the People
Raiders Hire Defensive Coordinator Rob Leonard
Kubiak's staff overhaul includes promoting longtime D-line coach to lead Las Vegas defense.
Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:53pm
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The Raiders' defensive overhaul under new coordinator Rob Leonard aims to build a cohesive, aggressive unit from a patchwork of talented players.Henderson TodayThe Las Vegas Raiders have undergone a major coaching staff overhaul this offseason, including the hiring of new head coach Klint Kubiak. One of Kubiak's first moves was promoting longtime defensive line coach Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator, representing the biggest change to the Raiders' coaching staff in five years.
Why it matters
As the Raiders transition to a 3-4 defensive scheme, the defensive line and linebacker positions become the most critical units. Leonard's promotion from within provides continuity, while the hiring of veteran defensive line coach Travis Smith adds valuable experience to the staff.
The details
Leonard worked his way up to defensive coordinator after three seasons as the Raiders' defensive line coach. The Raiders have spent the past few years building a solid rotation of dependable defensive linemen, which will be crucial under Leonard's leadership. To fill the void left by Leonard's promotion, the Raiders hired Travis Smith, who has 10 years of prior experience with the Raiders' defense in various roles.
- Earlier this offseason, Raiders GM John Spytek explained the decision to promote Leonard.
- Leonard has been the Raiders' defensive line coach for the past three seasons.
The players
Klint Kubiak
The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, hired this offseason to lead the team in a new direction.
Rob Leonard
The Raiders' new defensive coordinator, promoted from his previous role as defensive line coach.
John Spytek
The general manager of the Las Vegas Raiders, who explained the decision to promote Leonard to defensive coordinator.
Travis Smith
The Raiders' new defensive line coach, hired to fill the void left by Leonard's promotion.
Kwity Paye
A newly signed defensive lineman for the Raiders, who is excited to play under coach Travis Smith.
What they’re saying
“'From my point of view, he's a great young coach. Pete [Carroll] interviewed him to be a defensive coordinator last year. I sat in an interview. It was really impressive,'”
— John Spytek, Raiders General Manager
“'Being able to come here with a fresh start, I already spoke with Coach [Travis] Smith, and just being able to go out there and play free and just be myself. Playing in Indy was great, but it was definitely a part of me that felt like I can do more and I have the opportunity to do so here,'”
— Kwity Paye, Raiders Defensive Lineman
What’s next
The Raiders will look to Leonard and Smith to lead the defensive overhaul as the team transitions to a 3-4 scheme under new head coach Klint Kubiak.
The takeaway
The Raiders' defensive coaching changes represent a critical transition for the team, as they look to build a new identity on that side of the ball to complement Kubiak's offensive vision.
