LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — The Las Vegas Raiders officially hired Klint Kubiak as their new head coach following the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl victory, 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.
MORE: Klint Kubiak looks ahead as the new Las Vegas Raiders head coach
Patient approach differs from past searches
FOX5 Sports Director Kevin Bolinger, who has covered multiple Raiders coaching searches, noted the organization’s different approach this time.
“It was the patience of the Raiders,” Bolinger said. “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.”
The Raiders identified Kubiak as their preferred candidate early in the process and committed to waiting for him rather than pursuing other available options.
“A lot of teams will get a little antsy when a team makes a Super Bowl, and they can’t sign that coach for another two weeks,” Bolinger explained. “The Raiders said, ‘This is the guy we want. We’re going to wait for him.’”
Organizational structure influenced decision
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.
“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,” Bolinger said, referencing Bill Parcells’ famous quote: “If you want me to cook the meal, you need to let me shop for the groceries.”
Young coach fits quarterback development plan
The Raiders’ strategy aligns with their expected selection of a quarterback with the first overall draft pick, likely Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza.
“If you get a young offensive-minded coach who can build an offense around a young quarterback, because that’s really the recipe for success in today’s NFL, get that young quarterback on the rookie contract, then have the money to build around them,” Bolinger said.
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.
Player support evident at introduction
Kubiak’s introductory press conference drew more current players than previous coaching announcements, suggesting organizational buy-in for the hire.
“There were more players at the Klint Kubiak news conference, more current players than there were in any previous one. And I think that says a lot,” Bolinger observed.
The Raiders also brought in franchise legends, including Howie Long, Jim Plunkett and Charles Woodson for the announcement, building connections between past and present.
Immediate priorities for new coach
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 new coach also addressed the future of star defensive end Max Crosby, who has been subject to trade rumors.
“His motor never stops from the time he walks out on that field,” Bollinger said of Crosby. “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.”
Long-term outlook for stability
Despite the Raiders’ recent coaching turnover, Bolinger expressed cautious optimism about organizational stability under the current management structure.
“With John Spytek, they’ve shown patience. They did it with free agency last year. And everything has been methodical,” Bollinger said.
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.
The Raiders continue paying multiple former coaches, including Jon Gruden from his 10-year contract, but have shown a willingness to make changes quickly when situations don’t work.
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