Breaking News: Las Vegas Raiders finally identifies coaching candidates to replace Josh McDaniels

A new coaching search for the Las Vegas Raiders has begun after Josh McDaniels became the first of many NFL coaches to be sacked in 2023. Las Vegas made the correct decision in parting ways with McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler, but it is now time to consider Raiders coaching candidates for 2024.

Related: 2024 NFL coaching candidates

Let’s take a look at a few Raiders coaching possibilities who could succeed Josh McDaniels.

Best Las Vegas Raiders coaching candidates

Ben Johnson, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator

NFL teams are perpetually on the lookout for the next coaching sensation akin to Sean McVay, Kyle Shanahan, or Mike McDaniel. While these offensive maestros and strategic geniuses can bring success as head coaches, many others ultimately prove unfit for the position—a case in point being Josh McDaniels.

The potential downside with Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is apparent. Until 2019, he served as an offensive quality control coach and only took on play-calling duties late in the 2021 season. However, despite his relatively recent ascent, Johnson has enjoyed remarkable success in shaping the Lions’ offense over the past two years.

When the Lions acquired Jared Goff in the trade involving Matthew Stafford, Goff was initially seen more as a stabilizing force for the offense rather than a quarterback capable of significantly elevating its performance. Under Johnson’s guidance, however, Goff has emerged as one of the premier quarterbacks in the NFL over the last two seasons.

We can go beyond and beyond Goff’s figures. Detroit was 11th in rushing yards per game (128.2) and 15th in yards per run (4.5) in 2022 with D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams. The Lions are 11th in running (118.4 ypg) and 17th in yards per carry (4.1) this season with David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs.

That kind of balance, combined with Johnson’s unique innovation in play designs and route concepts, has resulted to Detroit being astonishingly efficient in crunch time. Last season, the Lions had the fourth-highest red zone touchdown rate (66.2%) and ranked top-14 in third-down conversion rate. Johnson is exactly the type of player the Raiders should be looking for as they develop an offense around a rookie quarterback, Josh Jacobs, Davante Adams, Michael Mayer, and Jakobi Meyers.

Mike Macdonald, Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator

When presented with the opportunity to draft a franchise-caliber quarterback such as Drake Maye or Caleb Williams, the necessity for a brilliant play-caller as the head coach diminishes. This is especially noteworthy given the notable struggles of the Raiders’ defense in the past two seasons.

At just 36 years old, Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald stands out as one of the youngest play-callers in the NFL. His journey with the Ravens began as a coaching intern in 2014, progressing through roles like defensive assistant (2015-’16), defensive backs coach (2017), and linebackers coach (2018-’20). After a year as the defensive coordinator for the Michigan Wolverines in 2021, he assumed the same position with the Ravens in the following year.

Macdonald’s impact extends beyond orchestrating the best defense in the NFL this season. His notable moves, like expressing a desire for linebacker Roquan Smith at the 2022 NFL trade deadline, have contributed to the Ravens’ formidable defensive performance.

During Weeks 9-18 of the previous season, the Ravens’ defense showcased its dominance by holding opponents to a league-low 165.6 passing yards per game. Quarterbacks managed only a 60.1% completion rate and a 70.4 QB rating during this period. The defense also limited interceptions to just four in nine games, recorded 21 sacks (2.3 per game) with seven interceptions. Additionally, Baltimore boasted an impressive 40.19% conversion rate on third downs, further solidifying their defensive prowess under Macdonald’s guidance.

Through eight games this season, the Ravens have allowed the NFL’s second-lowest average QB rating (71.6), seventh-lowest completion rate (61.4%), and ninth-best run defense (9.9 rush yards per game). Notably, some of these feats have taken place against elite competition. Macdonald is a rising star with a positive reputation among players and coaches, and he deserves a chance to be an NFL head coach.

Jerod Mayo, New England Patriots linebackers coach

While suggesting a New England Patriots assistant as a potential candidate for the Raiders’ coaching position might not sit well with the team’s supporters, it’s crucial to distinguish Jerod Mayo from previous Patriots coaching experiences, especially with Josh McDaniels. The differences between the two are significant.

Firstly, Mayo’s unique treatment by Patriots owner Robert Kraft sets him apart. Mayo, on the brink of exploring NFL head-coaching opportunities last spring, opted to stay with New England and signed a new deal. What makes this noteworthy is not just the decision itself, which is not uncommon in the NFL, but the rare announcement by the Patriots that they extended an assistant coach while revealing their intention to groom him for an NFL head-coaching role, a level of support and preparation not often seen.

The high regard in which Mayo is held extends beyond the Patriots organization. Reports indicate that Mayo impressed during interviews, notably with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021, before they hired Nick Sirianni. He apparently left a lasting impression with his leadership, intellect, and overall presence. Other NFL teams that have engaged with Mayo since have consistently praised his work ethic, ability to connect with diverse audiences, and meticulous preparation.

Mayo’s expertise in player development further strengthens his candidacy. He played a pivotal role in the growth of players like Kahlani Tavai, Ja’Whaun Bentley, and Dont’a Hightower. According to a former Patriots player, Mayo is seen as the closest thing to the next Bill Belichick, and Belichick himself recognized Mayo’s potential for greatness years ago. These factors, coupled with Mayo’s reputation for leadership and preparation, make him a standout candidate with a different profile than previous Patriots-associated coaches.

Frank Smith, Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator

Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel has rightfully received national acclaim for the success of the team’s offense, establishing himself as one of the premier play-callers in the NFL in less than two full seasons. While the Las Vegas Raiders may not be able to secure McDaniel, they could potentially land his top assistant, Smith.

At 43 years old, Smith has been coaching in the NFL since 2010, starting as an offensive line coach with the New Orleans Saints. His coaching journey reached the position of run-game coordinator and offensive line coach for the Los Angeles Chargers by 2021. When McDaniel assumed control in Miami, one of his initial moves was bringing Smith on board as the offensive coordinator.

Smith’s potential impact on the Raiders’ offense is intriguing, with one specific aspect standing out. Despite the Dolphins’ offensive line being widely considered average or below average entering the season, Smith demonstrated the ability to overcome this challenge through effective scheming and play-calling. Despite injuries preventing the starting offensive line from playing together, Miami has allowed the second-fewest pressures (42) and the eighth-fewest sacks (six) through seven games in 2023. This success can be attributed to the quick release of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (2.31 seconds average time to throw, ranking 1st in the NFL), a testament to the design of the system crafted by McDaniel and Smith.

Smith’s potential as a head coach lies in his ability to mask the shortcomings of an offensive line and optimize the speed of the roster. This makes him an appealing candidate to lead the Raiders, with the prospect of elevating their offense to new heights, potentially surpassing even the accomplishments of McDaniels’ best days.

Bobby Slowik, Houston Texans offensive coordinator

We know Raiders owner Mark Davis likes to make a big announcement, which is why names like Jim Harbaugh and Ben Johnson are at the top of the Raiders coaching candidate list. However, Houston Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik may be one of the better alternatives in Las Vegas for the 2024 season and beyond.

In 2023, the Texans’ offense, led by rookie C.J. Stroud, surpassed expectations, with Stroud on track to win Offensive Rookie of the Year. A significant contributor to this success has been the outstanding work of Offensive Coordinator Mike Slowik, who has crafted an electrifying and versatile passing game. Additionally, Slowik has transformed Devin Singletary into an effective lead running back.

In his inaugural season as a play-caller, Slowik has demonstrated incredible prowess. Despite persistent offensive line issues, he has seamlessly orchestrated a passing game that relies on quick throws and well-designed plays to simplify the quarterback’s responsibilities. Managing challenges typical of a first-year offensive coordinator, Slowik has displayed adaptability and achieved positive offensive performances, even with Case Keenum at quarterback—a testament to his flexibility and strategic acumen.

What makes Slowik particularly intriguing as a coaching candidate for the Las Vegas Raiders is his impressive coaching lineage. He was part of the legendary 2013 Washington coaching staff alongside Kyle Shanahan, Matt LaFleur, Sean McVay, and Mike McDaniel. When Shanahan transitioned to San Francisco in 2017, he brought Slowik with him. Slowik’s journey within the 49ers organization evolved from defensive quality control coach (2017-’18) to offensive assistant (2019-’20), culminating in his role as Shanahan’s passing-game designer in 2021.

Despite his youth, Slowik stands out as a favorite among potential Raiders coaching candidates. His experience with top-tier coaching minds and his ability to generate offensive success in challenging situations make him a compelling option for the Raiders’ coaching role.