Raiders' defensive coordinator search narrows as Jim Schwartz remains a live option; Packers' Demarcus Covington set for interview
The Las Vegas Raiders continue to pursue a defensive coordinator in a search that has kept one veteran name at the center of attention. Jim Schwartz remains a persistent presence in league chatter, even as contractual complications with his current team cloud any immediate resolution. Meanwhile, the Raiders are set to interview Green Bay defensive line coach Demarcus Covington, further sharpening the list of contenders. Notably, rob leonard has not appeared in the most recent coverage surrounding the opening.
Schwartz lingers despite contractual bind
Schwartz's name has not faded from discussions. Though he resigned from his previous post, he remains under contract through 2026 with a team option for 2027, leaving his movement anything but straightforward. The team that holds his rights has not released him, and the mechanics of how he could be hired elsewhere present a knotty situation for all parties involved.
Trade mechanics and the Constanza-style return give Raiders options
There are several avenues that could lead to Schwartz joining the Raiders. One path would be a separate transaction between the two clubs to compensate for his contractual rights; that compensation could be negotiated before or after his rights are relinquished. Another unusual scenario would see Schwartz rescind his resignation and attempt to return to his former employer, a move that would force that club into a difficult decision: reinstate him, cut him loose, or engage the league office if both sides refuse to yield. Those permutations make the situation fluid and potentially extend the timeline for a final decision.
Covington emerges as a concrete interviewee
Adding more clarity to the Raiders' process, the team has lined up an interview with Demarcus Covington, Green Bay's defensive line coach and run game coordinator. Covington brings prior coordinator experience and spent a lengthy stretch as an assistant in New England before joining Green Bay. His interview signals that the Raiders are exploring both established coordinators and younger internal candidates who bring scheming experience and a strong background with defensive fronts.
How personnel moves in Green Bay could influence the race
Covington's potential departure would reverberate in Green Bay, where defensive staff turnover is already underway. If Covington exits, his former employer would face the task of filling a critical defensive role, which may in turn affect how readily the Raiders can move on a hire. For the Raiders, the choice between a veteran like Schwartz and a candidate such as Covington comes down to fit with the new head coach's vision and how quickly the chosen coordinator can implement a scheme.
Where rob leonard fits — absence from current chatter
Across the latest coverage of the Raiders' defensive coordinator vacancy, rob leonard's name has not surfaced. That absence suggests he is not currently in the mix for this particular opening, at least in the public and league chatter shaping the narrative today. The search has centered more on high-profile veterans and recent coordinators with clear resumes tied to schematic implementation and staff leadership.
What's next for the Raiders' timeline
The Raiders appear to be conducting a methodical search, balancing immediate scheming needs with longer-term staff construction. Expect additional interviews to follow and for the situation around Schwartz's contract to remain a key storyline until it is resolved. Whoever is chosen will need to align with the head coach's defensive philosophy and be ready to shape the unit ahead of the coming season.
The hiring process remains dynamic; interested parties and observers should be prepared for further developments as negotiations and interviews continue.
