Full Breakdown
Raiders Interview Jeff Howard for Defensive Coordinator Position
2/14/2026, 12:49:44 PM
Overview of the Core Event
The Las Vegas Raiders are set to interview Jeff Howard, the safeties coach for the Seattle Seahawks, for their vacant defensive coordinator position. This move comes as the Raiders look to bolster their coaching staff under new head coach Klint Kubiak.
Background & Context
Jeff Howard has a diverse coaching background in the NFL, beginning his career in 2013 with the Minnesota Vikings. Over seven seasons with the Vikings, he served as a defensive assistant, gaining valuable experience that he later applied in various roles. From 2020 to 2022, Howard was with the Cleveland Browns, where he held the positions of defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator. Most recently, he served as the linebackers coach for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023 before joining the Seahawks.
Key Figures & Groups
- Jeff Howard: Currently the safeties coach for the Seattle Seahawks, Howard has previously worked with Kubiak in Minnesota and Seattle.
- Klint Kubiak: The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, Kubiak has a history of collaboration with Howard, having worked alongside him during two separate tenures with the Vikings and last season in Seattle.
Official Statements & Responses
Tom Pelissero of NFL Media reported the upcoming interview, highlighting Howard's extensive coaching experience and his connections with Kubiak. The Raiders' decision to consider Howard reflects their strategy to integrate familiar faces into the coaching staff.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Raiders' choice to interview Howard may be seen as a strategic move due to his familiarity with Kubiak, some analysts question whether hiring a coach with limited experience in defensive coordinator roles is the best approach for a team looking to improve its defensive performance.
What's Next
The outcome of the interview with Jeff Howard will be pivotal for the Raiders as they finalize their coaching staff. Should Howard be selected, it will mark a significant step in shaping the team's defensive strategy moving forward.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Raiders will interview Seahawks safeties coach Jeff Howard on Saturday for their defensive coordinator job, Tom Pelissero of NFL Media reports.” — Tom Pelissero, NFL Media
- “Howard worked with new Raiders coach Klint Kubiak in Minnesota and Seattle.” — Tom Pelissero, NFL Media
This interview represents a critical moment for the Raiders as they seek to enhance their defensive capabilities through experienced coaching leadership.
