Additional Coverage:
- Raiders to retain defensive pass game coordinator Joe Woods (nbcsports.com)
Raiders Keep Defensive Coaching Talent In-House with Key Promotions
The Raiders are opting for continuity and familiar faces as they reshape their coaching staff under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. The team has announced the promotion of Rob Leonard, formerly the defensive line coach and run game coordinator, to the pivotal role of defensive coordinator.
Further emphasizing an in-house approach, the Raiders will also be retaining defensive pass game coordinator Joe Woods. Woods, who previously served as the Raiders’ defensive backs coach in 2014, joined the team in 2025.
His familiarity with Kubiak runs deep, as Woods was the defensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints in 2023 and 2024, while Kubiak held the offensive coordinator position there in 2024. This existing working relationship is expected to foster a smooth transition and strong collaboration.
Woods brings a wealth of experience to the Raiders’ defensive efforts, having served as defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns for three seasons and the Denver Broncos in 2017 and 2018. His extensive coaching career also includes stints with the San Francisco 49ers, Minnesota Vikings, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
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- Raiders to retain defensive pass game coordinator Joe Woods (nbcsports.com)