Rob Leonard Hired as Raiders Defensive Coordinator

The Las Vegas Raiders have named defensive line coach/run game coordinator Rob Leonard defensive coordinator. Leonard has been with the Raiders since 2024. He was originally hired as the defensive line coach in 2023 and was promoted to run game coordinator in 2025. He is well-liked in the locker room and respected by players and fellow coaches.

Under Leonard, expect the Raiders to have a strong front seven, with a background as defensive line coach and run game coordinator. Look for the Raiders to use gap integrity and disciplined stunts, and to attack the line of scrimmage.

Leonard isn’t known primarily as a coverage guru, but would work with the secondary coach and DC on adjustments. The overall coverage scheme would likely be multiple looks— a mix of zone and man concepts tailored to the opponent’s strengths. Leonard probably leans on the secondary coach and defensive pass game coordinator to design the cover defense.

Look for Leoanrd to build a tough physical defense. If the Raiders add talent on defense and keep players like Maxx Crosby healthy, this system could become increasingly tough and reliable — especially against the run and early-down offenses.

Leonard started coaching in the NFL with the New York Giants in 2013 as a defensive assistant. In 2017, he moved to assistant defensive line coach; in 2018, he served as assistant linebacker coach.

Leonard served with the Miami Dolphins from 2019 to 2021, holding positions as linebacker coach, assistant defensive line coach, and outside linebacker coach.

Before joining the Raiders, Leonard spent time in Baltimore with the Ravens in 2022 as the outside linebackers coach.