The Las Vegas Raiders have moved swiftly following a pivotal defeat — the team announced today that they have made a big time change. The team has relieved Tom McMahon of his duties as special‑teams coordinator. The decision comes just hours after a 10‑7 loss to the Denver Broncos, a game marred by repeated special teams breakdowns.
What Led to the Change for the Raiders
Nov 6, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll during the first half at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Nov 6, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll during the first half at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
According to the Raiders and league insiders:
The Broncos’ winning drive was set up when a punt by the Raiders was blocked in the third quarter, leading directly to Denver’s go‑ahead field goal. NFL.com+1
On the Raiders’ final possession, kicker Daniel Carlson missed a 48‑yard attempt that would have tied the game with less than five minutes remaining. NFL.com+1
Head coach Pete Carroll released a statement:
“Earlier today, we made the tough decision to relieve Tom McMahon of his duties as special teams coordinator… We have a great amount of respect for Tom and the work that he has done in this league, but we have decided to move in a different direction.”
Impact on the Team
Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Las Vegas Raiders special teams coordinator Tom McMahon against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Las Vegas Raiders special teams coordinator Tom McMahon against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
With the Raiders now sitting at a disappointing 2‑7 record, the change signals a shift in urgency and accountability. The special teams unit, which has struggled all season, appears to have crossed a threshold. As one analyst noted, the blocked punt and miss weren’t isolated mistakes — they were the latest in a string of costly miscues.
What’s Next
The Raiders have promoted assistant special‑teams coach Derius Swinton II to interim coordinator for the remainder of the season. NFL.com+1
The move puts added pressure on the Raiders to shore up special teams execution immediately, especially as they prepare for challenging upcoming matchups in the AFC West.
For McMahon, a veteran of numerous NFL stops, this marks another chapter in a league where job security is tied tightly to unit performance.
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