Raiders Hire Klint Kubiak as New Head Coach After Patient Search

The Las Vegas Raiders officially named Klint Kubiak as their new head coach following the Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl victory.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Las Vegas Raiders have officially hired Klint Kubiak as their new head coach, completing a patient search process that prioritized finding the right fit over making a quick hire. Kubiak becomes the fifth full-time head coach since the Raiders moved to Las Vegas, continuing a pattern of frequent coaching changes under owner Mark Davis. The Raiders waited until after the Super Bowl to finalize the hire, as NFL rules prevented them from signing Kubiak while the Seahawks were still in playoff contention.

Why it matters

The Raiders' coaching search strategy aligns with their expected selection of a quarterback with the first overall draft pick, likely Indiana's Fernando Mendoza. The approach mirrors successful models like Drake Maye's development with the New England Patriots, who struggled as a rookie but became an MVP candidate in his second season with a new coaching staff.

The details

The Raiders identified Kubiak as their preferred candidate early in the process and committed to waiting for him rather than pursuing other available options. Owner Mark Davis established clear parameters for the coaching search, stating that General Manager John Spytek, working with minority owner Tom Brady, would control all football operations decisions. This structure effectively eliminated veteran coaches like Pete Carroll from consideration, as established coaches typically demand control over roster decisions.

  • The Raiders waited until after the Super Bowl to finalize the hire, as NFL rules prevented them from signing Kubiak while the Seahawks were still in playoff contention.
  • Kubiak's introductory press conference drew more current players than previous coaching announcements, suggesting organizational buy-in for the hire.

The players

Klint Kubiak

The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Mark Davis

The owner of the Las Vegas Raiders.

John Spytek

The general manager of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Tom Brady

The minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Max Crosby

The star defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders.

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What they’re saying

“It was the patience of the Raiders. They took their time. They were very thorough in their search. They didn't go after the shiny object of the veteran head coach with the splashy name.”

— Kevin Bolinger, FOX5 Sports Director (FOX5)

“When a veteran big-name head coach, like a Pete Carroll, comes in, they're going to want to have control of the football operations.”

— Kevin Bolinger, FOX5 Sports Director (FOX5)

“His motor never stops from the time he walks out on that field. It's hard to find those types of players that can set the tone for your team. So, of course, any head coach is going to want him.”

— Kevin Bolinger, FOX5 Sports Director (FOX5)

What’s next

Kubiak faces several urgent tasks as he begins his tenure, starting with assembling a coaching staff after being unable to pursue assistants during the Super Bowl period. He must also work with the scouting department to evaluate the current roster ahead of the NFL Combine in late February. The Raiders hold 10-11 draft picks, requiring evaluation beyond just the first overall selection.

The takeaway

The Raiders' coaching search strategy aligns with their expected selection of a young quarterback with the first overall draft pick, mirroring successful models like Drake Maye's development with the New England Patriots. The organization appears committed to a two-to-three-year development plan, particularly if they draft a rookie quarterback who may need time to develop.