The Las Vegas Raiders have made a bold move by appointing Klint Kubiak, the offensive mastermind from the Seattle Seahawks, as their new head coach. But here's the million-dollar question: Who will step up as the defensive coordinator to balance the scales? With Kubiak’s offensive prowess, the Raiders’ success now hinges on finding the right defensive leader. Let’s dive into some potential candidates, each with unique ties to Kubiak and varying levels of experience, and explore why they might—or might not—be the perfect fit.
Aden Durde
Current Role: Seahawks Defensive Coordinator
Kubiak Connection: Shared the 2025 season in Seattle.
Durde is already in a prime position with the Seahawks, but here’s the catch: Head Coach Mike Macdonald calls the defensive shots, leaving Durde in the shadows. Could the Raiders offer him the spotlight he needs to prove himself as a future head coach? It’s a risky move, but one that could pay off if Durde is hungry for more control.
Karl Scott
Current Role: Seahawks DBs Coach & Defensive Passing Game Coordinator
Kubiak Connection: Worked together in Minnesota (2021) and Seattle (2025).
Scott feels like a safer bet. He’s not yet a defensive coordinator but has steadily climbed the ranks, overseeing Seattle’s passing defense, which has consistently ranked in the top half of the league. Is he ready to take the next step? His familiarity with Kubiak and proven track record make him a strong contender.
Joe Woods
Current Role: Raiders DBs Coach & Defensive Passing Game Coordinator
Kubiak Connection: Shared time in Denver (2016-2018) and New Orleans (2024).
Woods is the in-house favorite with a wealth of experience, having led defenses for three different teams. He’s called plays for top-10 defenses and knows the Raiders’ players inside out. But does Kubiak want a proven leader or someone new? Woods’s resume speaks for itself, but his familiarity could be a double-edged sword.
Marcus Robertson
Current Role: Raiders Defensive Backs Coach
Kubiak Connection: Worked together in Denver (2017-2018) and New Orleans (2024).
Robertson is another in-house option with a solid history alongside Kubiak. However, he’s never been a defensive coordinator, which could be a blessing or a curse. Is Kubiak willing to take a chance on untapped potential, or will he play it safe?
Roy Anderson
Current Role: Eagles CBs Coach
Kubiak Connection: Shared time in Minnesota (2020-2021).
Anderson’s ties to the Vic Fangio coaching tree are hard to ignore. Having worked under Fangio and Clint Hurtt, he brings a defensive mindset that aligns with Kubiak’s needs. Could he be the missing piece to implement a Fangio-style defense in Vegas?
Steve Wilks
Current Role: Recently fired as Jets Defensive Coordinator
Kubiak Connection: Shared the 2023 season in San Francisco.
Wilks is a wildcard. Despite a rough stint with the Jets, his 2023 season with the 49ers was impressive. Is his track record enough to overlook recent struggles? Or is this a risk too far for Kubiak?
Kris Kocurek
Current Role: 49ers DL Coach
Kubiak Connection: Shared the 2023 season in San Francisco.
Kocurek is a respected defensive line coach with decades of experience, but he’s never led a defense. Could the Raiders be his stepping stone? His expertise is undeniable, but the leap to coordinator is no small feat.
Rob Leonard
Current Role: Raiders DL Coach & Defensive Run Game Coordinator
Kubiak Connection: None.
Leonard is the outlier here, but his work with the Raiders’ defensive line speaks volumes. Players like Maxx Crosby have praised him, and his promotion to run game coordinator shows his growth. Could keeping Leonard be the key to maintaining locker room harmony? Or will Kubiak prioritize a known ally?
Jim Schwartz
Current Role: Browns Defensive Coordinator
Kubiak Connection: None, but likely has ties to Gary Kubiak.
Schwartz is a veteran with over two decades of experience, but he’s reportedly unhappy in Cleveland. Could the Raiders offer him a fresh start? His expertise is unmatched, but his lack of direct ties to Kubiak could be a hurdle.
And this is the part most people miss: The Raiders’ defensive coordinator choice isn’t just about football—it’s about chemistry, ambition, and vision. Who do you think Kubiak should pick? Is it better to go with a proven leader or take a chance on untapped potential? Let’s debate in the comments!
