Klint Kubiak of the Seahawks is delaying the coaching searches for the Raiders and Cardinals.

Coaching Search Heats Up as Kubiak Emerges as Key Candidate

The rivalry is on for the man who transformed Sam Darnold into a standout player.

The Raiders and Cardinals are the last two teams looking for head coaches, and both are set to interview Clint Kubiak, the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator, in-person this weekend. According to Vinny Bonsignore from the California Post, these interviews will take place in Las Vegas.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler mentioned that Kubiak is a top candidate for both vacancies.

Hiring a coordinator for a team vying for the Super Bowl is a more intricate process compared to bringing on a coach for a struggling team. Kubiak is only available for in-person meetings during this bye week leading up to the Super Bowl, having had to conduct prior interviews virtually.

It’s possible either team might make a move to hire Kubiak after the Super Bowl on February 8, 2026.

This competition for Kubiak adds a unique twist, as one team will land a prominent coordinator while the other examines a crowded market already claiming eight coaching positions.

Kubiak, who is the son of former Super Bowl-winning coach Gary Kubiak, is in just his second year as the offensive coordinator in Seattle. Under his guidance, the offense ranked eighth in yards and third in points per game, also producing receiving yards leader Jackson Smith-Njigba.

Moreover, Kubiak played a crucial role in helping Darnold conquer his struggles in high-pressure situations. The former Jets quarterback secured the NFC’s top seed by defeating the 49ers, followed by a decisive win over San Francisco in a divisional round rematch, and throwing three touchdown passes to MVP contender Matthew Stafford in the NFC Championship Game against the Rams.

Now, the 38-year-old coach faces a choice between the AFC West and NFC West—two divisions that, despite their challenges, are among the most competitive in football.

The Raiders are looking at potentially selecting Indiana’s quarterback Fernando Mendoza as their top pick, supported by former first-round talents, running back Ashton Giunty and tight end Brock Bowers. Yet, the lack of a standout player on their defense aside from star pass rusher Maxx Crosby is a point of concern.

Kubiak’s perspective on Mendoza’s potential could significantly influence how he views this coaching opportunity.

On the other hand, the Cardinals are grappling with uncertainties regarding their quarterback, Kyler Murray. Letting him go this offseason could lead to a considerable hit on their salary cap.