Raiders Promote Rob Leonard to Defensive Coordinator

Leonard has worked closely with star DE Maxx Crosby in recent seasons.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Las Vegas Raiders have promoted Rob Leonard to be their new defensive coordinator, according to multiple reports. Leonard has served as the team's defensive line coach for the past three seasons and will now take over the defense after the team's previous coordinator, Jim Schwartz, was not retained.

Why it matters

The promotion of Leonard is seen as a move to provide continuity for the Raiders' defense, especially for star defensive end Maxx Crosby who has worked closely with Leonard in recent years. Leonard has 16 years of coaching experience, including 13 seasons in the NFL, which should help stabilize the Raiders' defense as they look to build on their recent success.

The details

Leonard has been with the Raiders since 2023, serving as the defensive line coach and adding the title of defensive run game coordinator in 2025. Prior to joining the Raiders, he had coaching stints with the Giants, Dolphins, and Ravens. In his new role as defensive coordinator, Leonard will be tasked with leading the Raiders' defensive unit and continuing to develop young talent like Maxx Crosby.

  • Leonard has coached for the Raiders for the past three seasons.
  • He was promoted to defensive coordinator in February 2026.

The players

Rob Leonard

The new defensive coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders, having previously served as the team's defensive line coach for the past three seasons.

Maxx Crosby

The Pro Bowl defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders, who has worked closely with new defensive coordinator Rob Leonard in recent years.

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What’s next

The Raiders will look to finalize Leonard's contract as their new defensive coordinator in the coming days.

The takeaway

The Raiders are staying in-house to fill their defensive coordinator vacancy, promoting Rob Leonard who has worked closely with star player Maxx Crosby in recent seasons. This move aims to provide stability and continuity for the Raiders' defense as they look to build on their recent progress.