The Las Vegas Raiders have gone through numerous head coaches since Mark Davis took over ownership of the team in 2011. While many of these coaches struggled, the organization has consistently taken chances on high-profile coordinators.
Perhaps the most disappointing head coaching hire Davis has made was Josh McDaniels. He didn’t even last two full seasons before being fired. After a disastrous stint with the Raiders, McDaniels decided to take a break for the 2024 season but is now making his return to the NFL.
The New England Patriots announced that McDaniels will rejoin the franchise as offensive coordinator under Mike Vrabel. This move was widely expected, as Vrabel and McDaniels have a long-standing relationship.
McDaniels is no stranger to the Patriots organization. He began his NFL career with the team in 2001 and eventually rose to offensive coordinator. Despite being considered one of the worst head coaches in NFL history—having been fired mid-season by two different franchises—McDaniels is regarded as a strong offensive coordinator.
This hire is a smart move for Vrabel, who likely won’t have to worry about McDaniels leaving for another head coaching role anytime soon. However, McDaniels’ success has largely been tied to Bill Belichick, and it remains to be seen if Vrabel can bring out the best in him.
Dennis Allen Lands Bears DC Job
McDaniels wasn’t the only former Raiders head coach to secure a coveted coordinator role. Dennis Allen is heading to the Chicago Bears as their new defensive coordinator. It’s the first major hire of Ben Johnson’s tenure as head coach.
Like McDaniels, Allen has had two chances to prove himself as a head coach, but both ended in failure. He went 8-28 during his time with the Raiders, a tenure that ranks among the worst in NFL history. He had slightly more success with the New Orleans Saints but was fired this season after a 2-7 start.
Despite his struggles as a head coach, Allen is an excellent defensive coordinator who has led some of the NFL’s top defenses. His hiring gives Johnson, known for his offensive expertise, a proven and experienced defensive playcaller. Additionally, Allen is unlikely to leave for a head coaching position, giving the Bears stability on defense.
Raiders Still Searching for Long-Term Coaching Stability
The hires of McDaniels and Allen as coordinators highlight the Raiders’ ongoing struggle to find a long-term solution at head coach. Since Davis assumed ownership, Jon Gruden is the only coach to last more than three full seasons in the role.
The Raiders’ inability to maintain stability at head coach has hindered their ability to build a consistent winner. Their aggressive pursuit of Ben Johnson this offseason underscores their desire for a long-term answer, but his decision to turn them down leaves the team still searching.
If the Raiders want to build a foundation for success, they may need to consider hiring an experienced coach like Pete Carroll. A veteran coach could stabilize the franchise for a few years and prepare the organization to attract a top-tier candidate in the future.
