Mike McDaniel already has an offensive coordinator job lined up for 2026, but that does not necessarily mean that he is out of the running for a head coaching position.
McDaniel remains a candidate for the Las Vegas Raiders head coach position, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The former Miami Dolphins coach has pulled out of several other coaching searches, but is apparently still in the mix with the Raiders.
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay with @MikeGarafolo and @TomPelissero: Davis Webb is a strong candidate for the #Raiders; The latest on the #Eagles OC search; The #Steelers hired Mike McCarthy but what about his QB? pic.twitter.com/9q6mWVJXEa
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 25, 2026
We have seen McDaniel withdraw from some head coaching opportunities, so he has the right to be picky. It is interesting that he is not doing so with the Raiders, but perhaps he is intrigued by the team’s ownership of the No. 1 overall pick and the chance to potentially develop a quarterback of his choice.
McDaniel has already lined up a new job as Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator, but has yet to officially sign the contract. The Raiders may be the only obstacle left to that hire, but McDaniel is at least thinking about that job.
The Raiders appear to be focused on offensive-minded head coaches, with one name featuring prominently in their search. McDaniel would fit that mold, though he is more experienced than most of the other names floating around.
