Posted on Feb 15

Raiders hire Janocko as OC, promote Leonard to DC after 3-14 season

Posted Feb 15, 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders are taking decisive steps to revamp their coaching staff and rebuild after a disappointing 3-14 season.

Why it matters: The hiring of Andrew Janocko as offensive coordinator signals a strategic shift for the Raiders, who are looking to leverage his experience and familiarity with head coach Klint Kubiak to improve their offensive output.

Janocko previously served as quarterbacks coach for the Seattle Seahawks and brings a wealth of knowledge from his time at the New Orleans Saints alongside Kubiak.
The Raiders recent struggles highlight the urgency for effective leadership, especially with their significant plans for the future.

What’s new: Andrew Janocko's promotion comes at a crucial juncture as the Raiders prepare for a critical off-season that includes holding the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

This draft position allows the team to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, this year’s Heisman Trophy winner, which could reshape the franchise’s direction.
The addition of standout players like tight end Brock Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty indicates a commitment to building a dynamic offensive core.

The bottom line: With Janocko's hire and Rob Leonard's promotion to defensive coordinator, the Raiders are aiming to create a more cohesive team environment.

Leonard's elevation from run game coordinator to defensive coordinator highlights the team's effort to maintain continuity while addressing defensive weaknesses.
The previous season's dismal record necessitated a fresh approach, reinforcing the need for innovation within both the offensive and defensive schemes.

Yes, but: While the coaching changes are promising, the success of these appointments hinges on the execution and adaptation of their strategies.

The Raiders must not only integrate new talent but also foster an environment where players can thrive under pressure.
There remains skepticism due to past management issues, making it imperative for the new staff to establish trust and clarity moving forward.

What to watch: As the Raiders prepare for the draft and potential roster adjustments, monitoring the integration of Janocko's offensive philosophy will be key.

Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how quickly the team adapts to Janocko's style, especially given its implications for their highly anticipated selection of Mendoza.

Zoom Out: The Raiders restructuring efforts reflect broader trends across the NFL, where teams increasingly prioritize innovative coaching and fresh talent to reclaim competitive standing.

As franchises look to maximize their potential, the Raiders' moves could serve as a case study in balancing veteran experience with youthful exuberance.

In summary, the Las Vegas Raiders are positioning themselves for a pivotal era, with strategic hires aimed at revitalizing a struggling franchise and setting the stage for future success.

Raiders hire Janocko as OC, promote Leonard to DC after 3-14 season

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 15, 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders are taking decisive steps to revamp their coaching staff and rebuild after a disappointing 3-14 season.

Janocko previously served as quarterbacks coach for the Seattle Seahawks and brings a wealth of knowledge from his time at the New Orleans Saints alongside Kubiak.

The Raiders recent struggles highlight the urgency for effective leadership, especially with their significant plans for the future.

What’s new: Andrew Janocko's promotion comes at a crucial juncture as the Raiders prepare for a critical off-season that includes holding the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

This draft position allows the team to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, this year’s Heisman Trophy winner, which could reshape the franchise’s direction.

The addition of standout players like tight end Brock Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty indicates a commitment to building a dynamic offensive core.

The bottom line: With Janocko's hire and Rob Leonard's promotion to defensive coordinator, the Raiders are aiming to create a more cohesive team environment.

Leonard's elevation from run game coordinator to defensive coordinator highlights the team's effort to maintain continuity while addressing defensive weaknesses.

The previous season's dismal record necessitated a fresh approach, reinforcing the need for innovation within both the offensive and defensive schemes.

Yes, but: While the coaching changes are promising, the success of these appointments hinges on the execution and adaptation of their strategies.

The Raiders must not only integrate new talent but also foster an environment where players can thrive under pressure.

There remains skepticism due to past management issues, making it imperative for the new staff to establish trust and clarity moving forward.

What to watch: As the Raiders prepare for the draft and potential roster adjustments, monitoring the integration of Janocko's offensive philosophy will be key.

Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how quickly the team adapts to Janocko's style, especially given its implications for their highly anticipated selection of Mendoza.

Zoom Out: The Raiders restructuring efforts reflect broader trends across the NFL, where teams increasingly prioritize innovative coaching and fresh talent to reclaim competitive standing.

As franchises look to maximize their potential, the Raiders' moves could serve as a case study in balancing veteran experience with youthful exuberance.

In summary, the Las Vegas Raiders are positioning themselves for a pivotal era, with strategic hires aimed at revitalizing a struggling franchise and setting the stage for future success.