Raiders Promote Rob Leonard to Defensive Coordinator

ESPN reports the team is finalizing a deal with the longtime assistant coach.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Las Vegas Raiders are promoting Rob Leonard, their current run game coordinator and defensive line coach, to the role of defensive coordinator, according to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Why it matters

Leonard has been with the Raiders organization since 2018 and has helped develop their defensive line into one of the team's strengths. This promotion signals the organization's confidence in his ability to lead the entire defense as the team looks to build on recent seasons and compete for a playoff spot.

The details

Leonard has been with the Raiders since 2018, first as a defensive line coach and then taking on additional responsibilities as the run game coordinator in 2021. He has played a key role in the development of the team's defensive front, which has been one of the more consistent units on the roster in recent years.

  • The Raiders are finalizing the deal with Leonard on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Rob Leonard

The Raiders' current run game coordinator and defensive line coach, who is being promoted to defensive coordinator.

Las Vegas Raiders

The NFL team based in Las Vegas, Nevada that is promoting Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator.

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What they’re saying

“The Raiders are finalizing a deal to promote Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Raiders will officially announce Leonard's promotion to defensive coordinator in the coming days.

The takeaway

This move signals the Raiders' confidence in Leonard's ability to lead their defense and build on the progress the unit has made in recent seasons under his guidance as a position coach.