Several coaching candidates among first wave of Raiders interviews

While Johnson is likely looking at more desirable jobs due to his high demand in this coaching cycle, the fact he is at least willing to listen to the Raiders’ pitch is promising enough.

Johnson’s defensive counterpart in Detroit has also drawn interest from the Raiders, as Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has also been requested for an interview.

The Raiders have also been confirmed to request an interview with Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, per Ian Rapoport.

Monken would have some support on the Raiders, as he was the offensive coordinator for the Georgia Bulldogs at the same time as tight end Brock Bowers was on the team.

Even more telling to the Raiders’ goals for the head coaching job is the litany of former head coaches joining the search. Dianna Russini of The Athletic has confirmed an interview request for Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, as well as expecting them to request one with Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

The Raiders are also planning to interview former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh. According to CBS Sports insider Jonathan Jones, Saleh’s position is unique; due to him not being employed by an NFL team, the Raiders do not need to file a request as they would have to with other candidates.

These candidates provide a number of interesting opportunities, suggesting that the Raiders are valuing experience in this coaching cycle.

Johnson would be a home-run hire, but he is likely to pursue an opportunity that is already set at the quarterback position. More likely candidates such as Monken and Flores have connections within the organization already, and either one would offer the Raiders what they want in their next coach.

The Raiders will reach out to more candidates in the coming days, but the final decision will take weeks. All Raiders fans can do for now is sit back and watch the drama unfold.