While interim head coach Antonio Pierce has received much of the recognition for the Las Vegas Raiders’ turnaround this season, the primary force behind the team’s improvement could be defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. After enduring two decades without a top-20 defense, the team now boasts the eighth-best scoring defense in the NFL.
As the 2024 offseason approaches, Graham faces uncertainties. His performance this season positions him as a strong contender for head coaching positions. However, even if he doesn’t secure one, there’s no assurance of his return as the defensive coordinator in Las Vegas.
“I’m not gonna get emotional…I’ve had the most fun this year coaching this group of players than I have my whole year….its been cool but I would say dope cause I’m from the 90s.”
Raiders DC Patrick Graham speaks on his experience improving the Raiders defense this season.
🎥:… pic.twitter.com/XiLicBDojr
— Vegas Sports Today (@VegasSportsTD) January 2, 2024
Approaching the final game of the season, Graham conveyed a heartfelt message about his players and the 2023 season. During his media availability on January 2, he shared, “I told the guys the other day – and I’m not going to get emotional, I promise you that – but I’ve had the most fun this year coaching this group of players than I have my whole career. Plain and simple. Not taking anything away from the guys I’ve coached before, but their growth, how they’ve improved, how they embrace myself, the coaches, the turmoil that we faced, and how they laid out there on the line for us, starting with our leader, Maxx [Crosby]. From him to the rookie that has the least amount of playing time. And I’ve had a lot of fun. I’ve had a lot of fun seeing them go out there, win games, lose games, and try their best, and try to do what I’m asking them to do: learn from their mistakes.”
Was This a Goodbye From Patrick Graham?
On X, many observed that Patrick Graham’s remarks carried a farewell undertone. This marks the concluding week of his practice for the season, limiting opportunities to communicate with his players. Even if Graham returns to Las Vegas next season, the dynamics will likely be different. The Raiders underwent a turbulent year, firing a head coach and unexpectedly re-entering the playoff contention.
Patrick Graham on the 2023 season:
“I not trying to get emotional, but I’ve had the most fun coaching this group of guys than any I have in my whole career. … It’s been a real fun year. I’m proud to be apart of the Raiders.”#Raiders pic.twitter.com/UIVxfhOEv5
— Levi Edwards (@theleviedwards) January 2, 2024
This unique season might remain unparalleled in Graham’s career. While concerns arise about the potential loss of Graham by Raiders fans, it’s important to highlight his expressed enjoyment working with this group of players. If Antonio Pierce assumes the role of the full-time head coach and Graham doesn’t secure another position, there remains a possibility that the defensive coordinator could return next season.
Could Patrick Graham Be HC Option for Las Vegas Raiders?
If owner Mark Davis is concerned about Antonio Pierce’s lack of NFL coaching experience but does not want the players to turn against him, Patrick Graham could be an intriguing candidate for head coach.
Graham has been an NFL coach since 2009 and has won a Super Bowl as an assistant. He’s also interviewed for head coaching jobs in the past, so he’s well-known in the NFL. The players clearly like what he’s doing on defense, and if he’s put in charge, the team might reach new heights. Although it appears improbable, Graham is not completely out of the running for the head coaching job in Las Vegas.