The Las Vegas Raiders are finalizing a deal to promote run game coordinator and defensive line coach Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator, per @AdamSchefter of ESPN. The move represents a significant internal promotion for the franchise as they look to solidify their coaching staff for the upcoming season.
Leonard has spent the past season overseeing the Raiders' defensive front, where he earned praise for his work with the team's pass rush and run defense. Most notably, Leonard worked closely with three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Maxx Crosby, who has served as the foundational piece of the Las Vegas defense. The promotion comes at a critical juncture for the organization, as Crosby’s future in Las Vegas remains a subject of recent uncertainty.
By elevating Leonard, the Raiders are opting for continuity within a defensive unit that showed improvement throughout the previous campaign. Leonard brings a wealth of experience coaching the defensive line and coordinating run fits, and he will now take over the full responsibilities of the defensive play-calling duties in Las Vegas.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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