The Raiders Just Made a Bold Move That Could Shake Up Their Defense—But Is It the Right Call?
In a surprising turn of events, the Las Vegas Raiders have named Rob Leonard as their new defensive coordinator, passing over the highly speculated Jim Schwartz. But here’s where it gets controversial: instead of bringing in an outsider, the Raiders are betting on an in-house candidate with a proven track record of collaboration and consistency. According to multiple reports, head coach Klint Kubiak is not only retaining Leonard but elevating him to this critical role, a decision that’s already sparking debate among fans and analysts alike.
Leonard, who has been with the Raiders for the past three seasons, isn’t just another coach—he’s been a key figure behind the scenes. As the defensive line coach and, more recently, the defensive run game coordinator (a title he added in 2025), Leonard has worked closely with star defensive end Maxx Crosby. And this is the part most people miss: this promotion could be a strategic move to keep Crosby in Las Vegas, as the two have developed a strong working relationship. With Crosby’s future occasionally in question, this decision might just be the Raiders’ play to retain one of their most dominant players.
But let’s dive deeper into Leonard’s background. With 16 years of coaching experience, including 13 seasons in the NFL, he’s no rookie. His journey began with the Giants (2013-2018), where he wore multiple hats, followed by stints with the Dolphins (2019-2021) as linebackers and assistant defensive line coach, and the Ravens (2022) as their outside linebackers coach. This wealth of experience positions him as a steady hand to lead the Raiders’ defense, but will it translate into on-field success?
Here’s the million-dollar question: Is promoting from within the right move for a team looking to rebuild its defensive identity? Or should the Raiders have gone for a big-name hire like Schwartz? Leonard’s familiarity with the team and players is undeniable, but can he bring the innovation and toughness needed to elevate the defense? Only time will tell. What’s your take? Let us know in the comments—this is one decision that’s sure to keep the debate alive.
