For the second consecutive offseason, the Las Vegas Raiders find themselves searching for a new head coach. On Monday morning, news broke that the organization is parting ways with Pete Carroll after just one season, which concluded with a dismal 3-14 record, the worst mark among all 32 NFL teams. This campaign represents the lowest winning percentage and fewest victories in Carroll’s illustration 19-season NFL head coaching career, spanning stints with the Patriots, Jets, Seahawks, and now Raiders, as well as nine years in college.
In the official announcement from owner Mark Davis, it was revealed that General Manager John Spytek will collaborate closely with minority owner Tom Brady to steer the franchise forward. The duo will lead the upcoming head coaching search, marking a pivotal moment with the No.1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft at their disposal. With the firing of Carroll, who are the top candidates for the job?
Following Pete Carroll’s firing after a dismal 3-14 record (worst in the league), the Raiders’ head coaching search led by GM Spytek and Brady has generated a lot of speculation. Here are the top odds for the Raiders’ next head coaching hire, according to bookies.com.
| Coach | Current Position | Percentage Change | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris Shula | Rams Defensive Coordinator | 14.3% | +600 |
| Jesse Minter | Chargers Defensive Coordinator | 13.3% | +650 |
| Robert Saleh | 49ers Defensive Coordinator | 11.1% | +800 |
| Brian Flores | Vikings Defensive Coordinator | 11.1% | +800 |
| Klint Kubiak | Seahawks Offensive Coordinator | 8.3% | +1100 |
Chris Shula, the 39-year old Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator, emerges as top candidate for the Raiders’ head coaching vacancy. His elite defense ranks top-10 in points allowed and efficiency, showcasing innovative schemes from the Sean McVay tree. Grandson of Hall of Famer Don Shula, he brings pedigree, youthful energy, and proven player development, ideal for rebuilding with the No.1 pick. Minority owner Tom Brady may appreciate his respected play-calling and leadership.
Jesse Minter, the 42-year-old Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator, is a leading candidate for the Raiders’ head coaching vacancy. His defense ranks top-5 in points allowed and yards per play, transforming a middling unit into an elite force with aggressive, disguised blitzes from the Brandon Staley/Jim Harbaugh tree. Proven player developer and culture builder under Harbaugh at Michigan (national title) and now NFL success make him ideal ideal for resetting Las Vegas with the No.1 pick.
Robert Saleh, 49ers defensive coordinator, is a prime candidate to replace Pete Carroll in Las Vegas. The Raiders coveted him last offseason, offering a lucrative DC role with a guaranteed succession plan to Carroll, which he declined for his 49ers return. His elite defense ranks top-10 despite major injuries, reviving his stock after the Jets stint (20-36 record, hampered by offense). Proven culture-builder with prior head coaching experience, Saleh’s intensity and scheme suit a rebuild around the No.1 pick.
Brian Flores, the 44-year old Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator, is a leading candidate for the Raiders’ head coaching job. His aggressive, adaptable defense ranks top-3 in points allowed and takeaways in 2025, earning widespread acclaim. Prior Dolphins head coaching experience (24-25 record) despite roster challenges shows resilience and leadership. Know for culture-building and player motivation, Flores appeals for a full rebuild with the No.1 pick.
Klint Kubiak, the 38-year old Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator, is also a leading candidate for the Raiders’ head coaching vacancy. His explosive offense ranks top-3 in scoring and top-6 in yards per play in 2025, masterfully resurrecting Sam Darnold into an MVP-level performer. Shanahan-tree innovator with Gary Kubiak pedigree, his QB-friendly scheme is perfect for developing a rookie from the No.1 pick.
(According to BetMGM: BetMGM offers exclusive promo codes, bonus deals and accurate odds for users upon signing up. Use BetMGM to ace your betting game in all sports!)
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mma I cover the National Football League and things cannot get better than that. I always dreamed to play football or basketball professionally since I’m built like a Running Back. But now that I can’t, since I’m technically in the “Unc” age, I thought why not pick a career in sports industry? So here I am, doing what I love, and hoping that the Commanders win the Super Bowl. I give love to players when it’s due, but can be critical about their performances at the same time. Enough about me, now let my articles do all the talking.
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