Klint Kubiak Introduced as New Raiders Head Coach
Klint Kubiak was introduced as the new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders on Wednesday. The event included appearances by six franchise legends, three Lombardi Trophies, and numerous references to the team's storied history.
Coaching Background and Mentorship
Kubiak's career includes experience as offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings (2021) and Denver Broncos (2022), and pass-game coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers (2023) and most recently the Seattle Seahawks.
He credits Kyle Shanahan, under whom he served as pass-game coordinator for the 49ers, with teaching him how to manage offensive play-calling while leading a team and how to empower assistant coaches. Kubiak also learned from Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald about demanding accountability and fostering collaboration between general management and ownership. He observed similar collaboration within the 2023 49ers organization, involving Shanahan, General Manager John Lynch, and owner Jed York.
Raiders Leadership and Connections
As the Raiders' head coach, Kubiak will collaborate with majority owner Mark Davis and general manager John Spytek.
He also plans to consult with minority owner Tom Brady, expressing excitement about Brady's passion for football, which he cited as a key factor in his decision to join the team. Former 49ers backup quarterback Sam Darnold described Kubiak as a "great offensive mind" and an "honest" individual, predicting success for him in Las Vegas.
Family Coaching Legacy and Shanahan Tree
Klint Kubiak's father, Gary Kubiak, also had a successful NFL coaching career, winning a Super Bowl with the 2015 Denver Broncos. Gary Kubiak's own coaching lineage connects to Mike Shanahan (Kyle's father), under whom he served as an assistant with the Broncos after both were on George Seifert's Super Bowl-winning 49ers staff.
The influence of Kyle Shanahan's coaching philosophy is evident across the NFL. Klint Kubiak's brother, Klay Kubiak, was promoted to the 49ers' offensive coordinator position this past season, reflecting the family's deep ties to the profession. Klint Kubiak noted Shanahan's demanding nature but emphasized the significant responsibility given to assistants, which fostered a desire to perform well.
Divisional Competition and Resources
Kubiak characterized the NFC West as a strong division with "really good coaches." He acknowledged the Raiders' resources, stating:
"Mr. Davis has set us up to have success there. Now it’s about us going and lifting those weights, using that field and those meeting rooms."
He emphasized the importance of finding an edge and fostering team cohesion to achieve success, aiming to end the franchise's Lombardi Trophy drought since the 1983 season.