INDIANAPOLIS — Clint Kubiak knows how rapidly circumstances can shift in the NFL. Just recently, he won a Super Bowl with the Seahawks and now finds himself as the head coach of the Raiders.
As he navigates Indianapolis for his inaugural NFL Scouting Combine in this new role, the stark contrast in his life over the past two weeks becomes increasingly clear.
The other day, while hurrying between meetings, he encountered some familiar faces from the Seahawks. Just as he was about to greet them, the reality of his situation hit him.
“I thought, I’m not going to work with you guys anymore,” Kubiak reflected on Wednesday.
Such is the fast-paced nature of life in the league.
“But that’s the NFL,” he added, acknowledging the whirlwind.
Having played a part in leading the Seahawks to their recent success, Kubiak now faces the uphill task of revitalizing the Raiders, seen by many as one of the league’s struggling teams.
The need for improvement is glaring. The offensive line requires significant upgrades, and Brock Bowers, the Raiders’ talented tight end, must find chemistry with a standout wide receiver. Furthermore, the entire starting linebacker corps is set to enter free agency, leaving uncertainty in crucial positions like cornerback.
And on top of all that, he’s managing a family move from Seattle to Las Vegas, assembling his first coaching staff, and getting to know Raiders’ general manager John Spytek. Plus, there’s the immediate pressure of preparing for free agency beginning in two weeks, not to mention a pivotal upcoming draft.
It’s a lot to take in. Yet, as Kubiak paused for a moment to collect his thoughts, he appeared surprisingly composed amid the chaos.
His steadiness and practicality are, perhaps, his greatest assets, and they likely influenced the Raiders’ decision to bring him onboard right after parting ways with Pete Carroll last month. Yes, his offensive expertise is impressive, but the challenges at hand call for patience and thoughtful decision-making—qualities those who know Kubiak often emphasize.
They enable him to see the Raiders’ circumstances as an opportunity rather than a burden.
“I know we took part in the challenge,” Kubiak expressed calmly. “And I’m really excited about it.”
Fortunately for the Raiders, they also have resources to aid in their rebuilding efforts this season. With the top pick in the draft, they are in a position to select Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, signaling a potential transformation for the team with the right quarterback.
They also hold nine additional draft picks, many at or near the top of their rounds, and possess the second-highest cap space in the league, projected at around $92 million.
What’s even better is that the organization is advocating for patience for once. After cycling through five coaches following Jon Gruden’s departure in 2021, they realize that success doesn’t come overnight.
“We won three games last year,” Spytek acknowledged. “We have to be very honest about where we are and there are a lot of needs that must be addressed.”
If they maintain their commitment, Kubiak should have the leeway needed to steer the franchise back on course.
“We have to make sure we set ourselves up for success,” he stated.
He’s smart and practical—he wasn’t going to leap into a head coaching role with no clear path to success. The Raiders, however, offer him a viable chance to turn things around relatively quickly.
Mendoza may not immediately be a starter, but if he lives up to the Raiders’ expectations, he could provide the momentum needed for the franchise. Kubiak, while focused on his duties with the Seahawks, hasn’t delved deep into college football lately. However, after observing Mendoza, he’s impressed by the reigning Heisman Trophy winner and national champion.
“He had great success last year,” Kubiak remarked. “He’s won a national championship before. That’s what you want, a winner.”
This week in Indianapolis, Kubiak and the Raiders will get a chance to meet Mendoza, marking a significant step toward building a lasting relationship.
“I’m excited to continue learning about him, not just me,” Kubiak added. “That’s our entire coaching staff, and our quarterback coach. I want all of our coaches to be involved, especially that position. I want everyone’s input.”
