Raiders Eye Kubiak Following Webb’s Withdrawal

With Davis Webb stepping back from the running for the Raiders’ head coaching position, attention shifts to Seahawks offensive coordinator Clint Kubiak as a likely candidate.

His upcoming meeting on Saturday with Raiders officials, which includes minority owner Tom Brady and general manager John Spytek, is anticipated to feel more like a formal endorsement than just an interview.

This meeting will happen at Kubiak’s base in Seattle, just before he and the Seahawks head to the Super Bowl in San Francisco.

The Raiders are highlighting the chance to work with Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, a player they are expected to select first overall in the NFL Draft. They plan to offer Kubiak time and support to rebuild the team, allowing him to assemble the right staff.

Sources indicate that Kubiak could accept the role with the Raiders if he desires it. However, discussions with the Cardinals concerning their head coaching position on Saturday will also take place. While the Raiders might be Kubiak’s preferred choice, the Cardinals still pose a potential challenge.

There’s even a chance Kubiak could opt to stay in Seattle. After moving between five teams in the last five years, he might prefer the steadiness of his current role.

Nevertheless, the depth of the Raiders’ interest in him suggests his intention to explore this opportunity is genuine.

If Kubiak were to decline, the Raiders could pivot to Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Ebello. But as it stands, Kubiak remains their primary target.

Kubiak: A Solution for the Raiders’ Offense?

Over the past three seasons, the Raiders’ offense has been on a downward trajectory, culminating in a stark 14.2 points per game—the worst in the league last year. There are various issues, from underwhelming quarterback play to insufficient play-calling and scheme innovation.

Regarded as one of the sharpest offensive minds today, Kubiak could potentially turn things around.

In his inaugural season with the Seahawks, Kubiak’s offense ranked third in the league with 28.4 points per game and eighth in yards averaged per game at 351.4.

Quarterback Sam Darnold had a strong season, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 25 touchdowns, while wide receiver Jackson Smith-Njigba led the league with nearly 1,800 receiving yards.

Focus on the Run Game

While Darnold and Smith-Njigba’s numbers are impressive, Kubiak also established a formidable run game, with the Seahawks averaging 123.3 rushing yards per game. His commitment to maintaining a balanced attack, regardless of the circumstances, would be beneficial for the Raiders, who have struggled to remain dedicated to the run game when faced with challenges.

Maximizing Mendoza’s Potential

The Raiders have a crucial task ahead with Mendoza’s development. He represents one of the most vital hires in the franchise’s recent history. Ensuring he has a coach he trusts will be key.

Kubiak’s collaboration with Darnold gives hope for Mendoza’s success. It’s worth noting that Darnold was actually dealing with injuries when he arrived in San Francisco in 2023. While Kyle Shanahan played a significant role in reviving Darnold’s career, Kubiak also contributed significantly as the passing game coordinator.

Kubiak’s experience in nurturing Darnold’s talents will be invaluable as the Raiders look to develop Mendoza going forward.