Raiders Promote Rob Leonard as New Defensive Coordinator

The move aims to maintain continuity and keep star pass rusher Maxx Crosby happy.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Las Vegas Raiders have named Rob Leonard as their new defensive coordinator, promoting him from within the organization. Leonard has been with the Raiders for 14 years and is considered a close confidant of star pass rusher Maxx Crosby. While some question whether Leonard has the experience to call an entire defense, the team is betting on maintaining continuity and keeping Crosby happy with the internal hire.

Why it matters

The Raiders' defense has shown promise in recent years, and keeping that momentum going will be crucial as the team looks to return to the playoffs. However, promoting an unproven coordinator carries risks, as the ability to effectively game-plan and make in-game adjustments is critical for a defensive coordinator. The move also signals the team's commitment to keeping Maxx Crosby, one of the league's top pass rushers, happy and in Las Vegas long-term.

The details

Rob Leonard has been with the Raiders for 14 years, working his way up from a defensive assistant to the team's run game coordinator. He is considered close with star pass rusher Maxx Crosby, who has referred to him as 'Robbie.' While Leonard has experience coaching a position group, this will be his first time calling an entire defense on game days. The team is betting that his familiarity with the players and system will allow for a smooth transition, though there are questions about his ability to make adjustments and handle the increased responsibilities of a defensive coordinator.

  • The Raiders announced the hiring of Rob Leonard as their new defensive coordinator on February 15, 2026.

The players

Rob Leonard

A 14-year coaching veteran with the Raiders, Leonard has been promoted from run game coordinator to defensive coordinator.

Maxx Crosby

The Raiders' star pass rusher, who is considered close with new defensive coordinator Rob Leonard.

Jim Schwartz

A veteran defensive coordinator who was reportedly considered for the Raiders' job before they promoted Leonard from within.

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What they’re saying

“The fact that Maxx loves playing for Leonard and they're so close that Maxx calls him 'Robbie' is a plus but not why they decided to make him the DC.”

— J. Jonah Jameson (Twitter)

“They didn't have a lot of good options so they settled They chose the one who's already at home and who also has a very good relationship with Maxx. Win-win situation.”

— Jordi de Raiders (Twitter)

“At first glance it seemed like the former. However, after looking at how his group and players have performed it's evident that it's a deserved promotion, with the added bonus of Maxx liking his style of coaching.”

— RaiderBerto (Twitter)

What’s next

The Raiders will be closely watching how Rob Leonard performs in his new role as defensive coordinator, especially in terms of his ability to game-plan, make in-game adjustments, and get the most out of the team's defensive talent.

The takeaway

The Raiders' decision to promote Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator is a calculated risk, as he has limited experience calling an entire defense. However, the team is betting that his familiarity with the players and system, as well as his close relationship with star pass rusher Maxx Crosby, will allow for a smooth transition and continued defensive improvement.