Rob Leonard adjusts to new role as Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator

Rob Leonard assumes the defensive coordinator role for the Las Vegas Raiders as the team prepares for the 2026 NFL regular season. After serving as the team's defensive line coach from 2023 to 2025, Leonard takes on play-calling duties under new head coach Klint Kubiak. During the preseason, the Raiders' defensive unit showed improvement between their opening loss to the Arizona Cardinals and their second outing against the Houston Texans. Leonard credited increased familiarity with the scheme and a more nuanced approach to play-calling for the defensive growth. He continues to rely on assistant coaches like Travis Smith to help manage situational play-calling. The focus now shifts toward refining the defense ahead of the upcoming regular season.

• 7:07 PMYahoo Sports — Rob Leonard settling into new role as Las Vegas Raiders’ defensive coordinator