Why the Raiders’ Coaching Search Looks Different This Time

FORMER RAIDER HAS A BOLD PICK FOR NEXT HEAD COACH

The Raiders’ coaching search is heating up, and our latest Silver & Black Sports Network podcast dives straight into what actually matters. I’m joined by former Raiders wide receiver Ryan Hoag for a schematic breakdown of the coaching candidates in the mix. But that’s not all, he also names the coach he believes should be leading this franchise next. We also break down how Dante Moore’s decision to return to school reshapes the Raiders’ draft outlook, why the No. 1 pick just got more valuable, and what it means for Fernando Mendoza and the future at quarterback. If you want real insight, not surface-level chatter, this episode is worth the watch.

WHY ARE CAREER BACKUPS FLYING THROUGH THE COACHING RANKS?

There’s an interesting trend emerging in the NFL coaching world: former backup quarterbacks are climbing the ranks at a rapid pace. The Raiders tapped into that trend last week by interviewing Davis Webb for their head coaching job. Webb spent six seasons as an NFL backup and is now the Broncos’ quarterbacks coach and offensive passing-game coordinator. David Blough is another example — after just two seasons as an NFL assistant, he was recently hired as the Commanders’ offensive coordinator.

So what’s behind the fast rise of these former backups? Why are they getting opportunities so quickly? The story linked above from The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue does a great job explaining just how much responsibility is placed on backup quarterbacks, even when they rarely see the field. It’s a worthwhile read — and it may give you a better sense of how prepared someone like Webb really is to run a team.

THE 411 ON SCHEELHAASE

Speaking of young coaches getting a look in this cycle, Nate Scheelhaase is set to interview with the Raiders today. The story linked above from Sports Illustrated’s Conor Orr pulls back the curtain on why Scheelhaase is suddenly generating buzz. It explains why, at just 35 years old, he’s drawn interest from teams like the Raiders, Ravens, and Browns during this hiring cycle.

MENDOZA A LOCK TO GO NO. 1?

Fernando Mendoza has been the frontrunner to go No. 1 overall for a while now, but once Dante Moore announced he was returning to school, those odds skyrocketed. Mendoza is now a -7000 favorite to be the top pick in this year’s draft. After years of being on the outside looking in at the quarterback position, it finally feels like the Raiders are in position to get it right under center — and it’s not just us saying that. GM John Spytek has acknowledged that it’s time for the franchise to find a long-term answer at quarterback.

We’re talking a lot about the coaching carousel today — and let’s be honest, that’s the story right now. If you want a deeper dive into the growing list of coaches who have interviewed (or will be interviewing) with John Spytek and Tom Brady, check out our Silver & Black Sports Network Podcast from earlier this week. I break down what each candidate believes in, what they run schematically, and how their approach could realistically translate to the current Raiders roster. With the list now up to 11 names, this episode is all about understanding why the Raiders are targeting a specific type of coach as this search continues.

MISS ANYTHING?

Catch up on some of our recent stories:

SPEAKING OF COACHING INTERVIEWS…

While we’re on the subject of coaches interviewing with the Raiders, this is a great throwback story from Jon Gruden reflecting on his interview with Al Davis.

RAIDERS ROUNDERS

Each week, I team up with betting analyst Matt Perrault (The Bostonian vs The Book, The Daily Juice) to spotlight the best Raiders bets of the week and a few smart plays from around the NFL. Think of it as the perfect mix of insider football talk and betting insight, giving you a sharper look at how Vegas views the Silver & Black — from player props to game lines — and where the edges might be heading into Sunday.

Obviously the Raiders aren’t in on the postseason action, but Raiders Rounders rolls on anyway. Here’s Matt’s take on the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs:

• Seattle -7

• Denver moneyline

• Houston +3

• Bears +4 Matt doesn’t love this one, he notes it’s a tough one to call, so do so at your own perril.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Raiders Rounders is all about sharing our perspective on the game. These aren’t betting recommendations — any wagers you place are 100% your responsibility. Bet responsibly.

FANSHOTZ FRIDAY

“FanShotz Friday”

By now, you have seen the phenomenal photos we’ve been using in many of our newsletters. They’re some of the best shots you’ll find of your favorite team, captured through the lens of our friend Arnie Bazemore of Fanshotz.com. Every Friday, we’ll feature Arnie’s favorite Raiders shot of the week that he captures at practice or on game day.

This week, we’re featuring a shot Arnie snagged of Michael Mayer running a route in the Titans game. Over the last week or so, I’ve been wondering what the future holds for Mayer. He had a strong finish to the year, and I think he and Brock have the potential to be the best tight end room in the league. Whoever the next coach is will play a massive role in determining if that ever comes to fruition. Given the rise in multiple tight end sets around the league in recent years, I think he could be a solid asset for the Raiders behind Brock if they land the right coach.

Check out Arnie’s work at his site linked above and reach out if you’re interested in working with him. He’s a great guy and has been so supportive of me over the years when I was at NBC here in Vegas, and he’s come along for the ride with Silver & Black Sports Network, too.

WHAT’S NEXT?

The natty! Fernando Mendoza and the Indiana Hoosiers are taking on Miami on Monday in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. In my mind, Fernando’s already proven he should be the guy at No. 1 for the Raiders. He’s had an unreal season, and has backed it up in the playoff so far, too. Having said that, Miami’s defense is tough as hell and it should be fun to see how he responds to that challenge. After the game, I’ll be recording a reaction podcast to break down how he fared against the Canes. So, keep an eye out for that on YouTube on Monday night.

Catch ya next time,