The Las Vegas Raiders are diligently working to finalize their coaching staff, particularly for crucial positions like the defensive coordinator. In a significant development, they have set up an interview with Jeff Howard, the current safeties coach for the Seattle Seahawks. This interview marks their first reported engagement with a defensive assistant for the open defensive coordinator (DC) role. The team's proactive approach underscores their commitment to building a strong leadership team for the upcoming season, especially with the scouting combine rapidly approaching.
Raiders Eye Seahawks' Jeffeties Coach Jeff Howard for Defensive Coordinator Position
In a strategic move to bolster their coaching roster, the Las Vegas Raiders have initiated discussions for their defensive coordinator position. On Friday, February 14, 2026, the Raiders confirmed an interview with Jeff Howard, the respected safeties coach for the Seattle Seahawks. This development follows a period of intense recruitment where the Raiders have been actively seeking candidates for both offensive and defensive coordinator roles. Howard brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served as a safeties coach for the Seahawks for the past two seasons. His professional ties to Klint Kubiak, dating back to their shared time as first-time NFL assistants with the Minnesota Vikings in 2013, could play a pivotal role in his potential appointment. Throughout his career, Howard has held various coaching positions across the NFL, including a tenure as a defensive backs coach with the Browns from 2020 to 2022 and a linebackers coach with the Chargers in 2023, before joining Mike Macdonald's staff in Seattle in 2024. The urgency to fill these key positions is paramount for the Raiders, as they aim to complete their coaching staff before the scouting combine commences on February 23, ensuring ample time for preparation and strategic planning.
This pursuit of Jeff Howard signifies the Raiders' methodical approach to staffing their leadership roles. The careful consideration of candidates with previous working relationships, such as Howard's connection with Kubiak, suggests a desire for cohesive teamwork within the coaching unit. The NFL's dynamic nature often sees teams scrambling to finalize their staff during the offseason, and the Raiders' swift action in scheduling interviews demonstrates their determination to be well-prepared. This move is not just about filling a vacancy; it's about strategically aligning talent and experience to foster a robust and successful defense for the upcoming season. The outcome of this interview could be a crucial step in shaping the Raiders' competitive future.
