Rob Leonard Appointed as Raiders Defensive Coordinator
Rob Leonard has been appointed as the new Defensive Coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders. This appointment marks his first season in this key role after previously serving as the run game coordinator and defensive line coach with the team.
Career Overview
Leonard begins his fourth season with the Raiders, bringing 16 years of coaching experience to the position, including 13 seasons in the NFL. His transition to Defensive Coordinator is anticipated to enhance the team’s defensive strategies and performance.
Previous Achievements
In the 2025 season, under his guidance as run game coordinator, the Raiders ranked second in the NFL for fewest rushing yards allowed per attempt at 3.9. They also allowed a total of 1,986 rushing yards, placing them 17th in the league. The defense achieved significant metrics:
- Third in tackles for loss with 105
- DE Maxx Crosby earned his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl selection with 10.0 sacks
2024 Season Highlights
In 2024, Leonard further developed the defensive line, leading to 20 passes defensed, which was second-most in the NFL for that category. The Raiders recorded 38 total sacks, with a strong finish: 18 sacks over the last six games—tied for fourth most during that period. This year, Leonard’s defense saw an unprecedented number of players contributing to the sack count:
- 18 players recorded at least a half-sack, tying for the most in NFL history.
Maxx Crosby maintained strong performance metrics, making the Pro Bowl again and finishing with notable stats such as 45 tackles and 17 tackles for loss.
Professional Background
Leonard joined the Raiders after a successful tenure with the Baltimore Ravens in 2022, where he assisted the team in ranking in the top-five in key defensive categories, including:
- No. 3 in points allowed per game (18.5)
- No. 3 in red zone TD percentage (46.4)
- No. 3 in rushing yards allowed per game (92.1)
- No. 4 in third-down efficiency (34.9)
Prior Coaching Experience
Before his time in Baltimore, Leonard spent three seasons with the Miami Dolphins. Highlights from his Dolphins career include:
- Leading a linebacking unit that recorded 329 tackles and 19.5 sacks.
- Assisting in the development of linebacker Jaelan Phillips, who set a rookie record with 8.5 sacks.
Leonard’s earlier coaching positions included an assistant role with the New York Giants. His coaching journey began at his alma mater, North Carolina State, where he contributed to the team’s appearance in three bowl games.
Conclusion
With Rob Leonard now at the helm as the Raiders’ Defensive Coordinator, the team anticipates a solidified defensive strategy, potentially translating into improved performance during the upcoming NFL season. His extensive expertise may prove invaluable as the Raiders look to enhance their competitive edge in the league.
