Raiders Closing in on Klint Kubiak as Next Head Coach

The Las Vegas Raiders' lengthy head coaching search appears to be nearing its conclusion. Multiple league sources confirmed to NFL Network and ESPN on February 2, 2026, that the franchise is zeroing in on Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and is working to finalize a contract to make him the team's next head coach.

The 38-year-old Kubiak, who just completed his first season as the Seahawks' OC, orchestrated one of the league's most potent offenses in 2025. Under his guidance, Seattle finished the regular season ranked third in the NFL in scoring and eighth in total yards, a significant factor in their run to Super Bowl LX. Kubiak's innovative scheme and play-calling prowess, which helped maximize the talents of quarterback Geno Smith and a dynamic receiving corps, have made him one of the most sought-after coaching candidates this cycle.

For the Raiders, this move represents a decisive step in a critical offseason. The team has been without a permanent head coach since firing Pete Carroll on January 5, 2026, following a 3-14 season. The search has been a priority for owner Mark Davis and the front office, who are tasked with overseeing a rebuild centered around the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

While an agreement is considered imminent, an official announcement cannot be made until after the Seahawks' season concludes. Seattle is set to face the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl LX on February 8. Once their campaign is over, the Raiders are expected to swiftly formalize the hire, allowing Kubiak to immediately begin assembling his staff and planning for the draft and free agency.

Kubiak, the son of former NFL head coach Gary Kubiak, brings a strong offensive pedigree and a modern approach to the role. His potential hiring signals the Raiders' intent to build a dynamic, score-first identity around their future franchise quarterback, who they are overwhelmingly expected to select with the top draft pick in April.

The Ripple Effects of the Search

The focus on Kubiak has dominated the Raiders' news cycle, but other significant transactions are shaping the roster. On February 2, the team completed a trade, sending veteran wide receiver Jakobi Meyers to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for a fourth-round and a sixth-round pick in the 2026 draft. This move creates additional cap space and adds valuable draft capital for the new regime.

Furthermore, the team's football operations continued building depth for the offseason program, announcing the signing of 12 players to Reserve/Future contracts. Notable names include wide receivers Phillip Dorsett II and Brenden Rice, linebacker Jamin Davis, and guard Layden Robinson. These signings secure the Raiders' rights to these players for the 2026 season, with them joining the 90-man roster in the spring.

Defensive Star in the Spotlight

Amid the coaching news, a cloud of uncertainty hangs over the team's best player. On February 2, star defensive end Maxx Crosby fueled speculation about his future with cryptic social media activity. Crosby, who is under contract through the 2029 season and is recovering from knee surgery, has been the subject of trade rumors. While he is expected to be ready for training camp, his status will be a primary topic for the incoming head coach and general manager.

The coming days are pivotal for the Silver and Black. Finalizing the deal with Klint Kubiak will provide much-needed leadership and direction for a franchise holding the keys to the draft and looking to climb out of the AFC West cellar. All eyes now turn to the Super Bowl, after which the Raiders' new era is poised to officially begin.