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Raiders’ DC hire may appeal to Maxx Crosby

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Feb 14, 2026 6:50 PM ET

The Las Vegas Raiders may be trying to appeal to Maxx Crosby with their choice of defensive coordinator.

The Raiders are promoting defensive line coach Rob Leonard to the defensive coordinator position, according to multiple reports. Many were quick to note that Leonard is known to be very close with Crosby, leading some to question whether that was at least part of the reason for the promotion.

Rob Leonard is close with Maxx Crosby, whose future in Las Vegas remains clouded. Promoting his position coach to DC certainly doesn’t hurt. https://t.co/8Aa0d3gZE2
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 14, 2026

Leonard is certainly qualified for the position regardless of his ties to Crosby. He joined the Raiders in 2023, having previously worked for the Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins, and New York Giants. He and Crosby developed a strong rapport, so his promotion at least does not hurt the Raiders’ chances of retaining their star player.

Crosby’s future has been the subject of speculation after tension developed between him and the organization late last season. It is no certainty he will be dealt, though some insiders believe it to be more likely than not.

Crosby, 29, remains one of the most feared defensive players in the NFL. Despite battling through injuries, he still collected 10 sacks through 15 games in 2025, marking the fourth time in his career that he has reached double-digit sacks.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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