The Raiders are undergoing a thorough coaching search, primarily considering two candidates: Clint Kubiak, the offensive coordinator for the Seahawks, and Davis Webb, the quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator for the Broncos.
They’re understandably leaning towards a bolder approach, especially with the No. 1 pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. It’s pretty much a given that they’ll select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Key figures in the organization—minority owner Tom Brady and general manager John Spytek—are keen on finding someone with a strong offensive mindset to nurture Mendoza.
Kubiak seems to be the frontrunner. He left a great impression on the Raiders with how he managed the Seahawks’ dynamic offense, particularly in the development of quarterback Sam Darnold. The excitement around him spiked after he executed a near-flawless game plan during the Seahawks’ recent 31-27 NFC Championship victory over the Rams.
Brady, serving as a lead analyst for Fox NFL, witnessed Kubiak’s strategic acumen first-hand, which likely boosted Kubiak’s appeal to the Raiders.
Brady and Spytek are scheduled to meet with Kubiak in Seattle on Saturday. Previously, Kubiak had a virtual interview with the Raiders about two weeks ago while the Seahawks were on playoff bye.
Saturday is going to be a hectic day for Kubiak; he also has plans to connect with the Cardinals about their head coaching opening. Plus, there’s the Super Bowl on Sunday against the Patriots.
Due to Kubiak’s Super Bowl commitments, the Raiders and Cardinals can’t officially sign him until after the game wraps up. There’s still room for a verbal agreement, though.
Last year, the Saints reached a handshake deal with Kellen Moore, the then-offensive coordinator for the Eagles, but had to wait until after the Super Bowl to formalize the hire. The 49ers did something similar with Kyle Shanahan in 2017.
Webb, 31, is another candidate on the Raiders’ radar, possessing the potential to be a future head coach, although he still has much to learn.
Having transitioned to coaching after a six-season career as a quarterback, Webb has spent three years as an assistant under Sean Payton with the Broncos. However, concerns linger about his lack of experience—he’s never been a coordinator or a play-caller.
Still, the Raiders understand the need for patience as they work with a relatively inexperienced coach. They’re aware that rebuilding takes time, and they don’t expect immediate playoff success.
Webb could create a good partnership with Mendoza, allowing them to grow together in their respective roles.
Meanwhile, Webb finds himself in a waiting game until the Raiders finalize their coaching choices. It’s uncertain whether he can afford to be patient, especially as other teams like the Broncos and Giants might offer him offensive coordinator positions.
He has future plans in mind, along with potential assistant coaches he might want to bring on board for the Raiders. The question is: can Webb afford to stay on hold as the Raiders make their decision? And will his prospective staff have to wait as well?
This situation poses risks for the Raiders; they need a solid backup plan established before meeting Kubiak. After that meeting, they’ll get a clearer picture of Kubiak’s readiness to lead. If things don’t pan out with him, Webb will likely be their next option.
But will he still be available then?
