The Las Vegas Raiders have officially appointed a new defensive coordinator under Pete Carroll, bringing in a familiar face to fill the role. Patrick Graham is returning to the Raiders as DC, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Earlier in the day, NFL insider Josina Anderson had identified Graham as the front-runner for the position. Pelissero further revealed that Graham had other options, including a potential move to Jacksonville, but Carroll and co-owner Tom Brady played a key role in convincing him to come back to the Raiders.
Graham had even been linked to head coaching opportunities, including a possible role with the Jaguars under new head coach Liam Coen. His return to the Raiders is important for continuity, and it helps keep a significant player on the team.
Graham’s familiarity with the Raiders’ locker room is a major asset for Carroll. Additionally, Graham’s return is particularly beneficial for defensive end Maxx Crosby, who has flourished under Graham’s coaching. Crosby has recorded a total of 34.5 sacks during Graham’s tenure and has earned three of his four Pro Bowl selections with him as DC.
Crosby had previously been rumored to want to leave Las Vegas, but with the coaching change, his future looks more stable. Graham’s return could help silence any trade rumors surrounding Crosby.
In 2024, Graham’s defense ranked 15th in total yards, recorded 38 sacks, and forced 13 turnovers. Some players, like linebacker Robert Spillane and safeties Tre’von Moehrig and Isaiah Pola-Mao, had career-high seasons under Graham’s guidance.
While Graham has never coached with Carroll in the NFL, both share a New England Patriots background, where Graham spent time from 2009 to 2015. During that period, he was part of a team that helped Tom Brady secure six Super Bowl victories. Graham and Carroll even worked together in Super Bowl XLIX, where the Patriots won against Carroll’s Seattle Seahawks. Now, with Brady also involved, the trio will work together to try to turn the Raiders’ fortunes around.
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