The Las Vegas Raiders are rounding out their defensive coaching staff under new head coach Klint Kubiak, naming Ronell Williams as their linebackers coach and Al Holcomb as senior defensive assistant.
The hires were announced by ESPN’s Adam Schefter on February 19, 2026, via X (formerly Twitter), signaling a focus on experience and depth as the team prepares for the 2026 season.
Sep 11, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Sep 11, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Las Vegas Raiders Hire Ronell Williams as Linebackers Coach and Al Holcomb as Senior Defensive Assistant: Klint Kubiak Builds Out Staff
Schefter’s post read: “Raiders named Ronell Williams their Linebackers Coach and Al Holcomb their Senior Defensive Assistant.”
These additions follow recent moves, including the promotion of Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator and the expected hiring of Joe DeCamillis as special teams coordinator. With Kubiak (formerly Seattle’s OC) at the helm, the Raiders are building a staff blending fresh perspectives with proven NFL track records.
Ronell Williams: Bringing Eagles Pedigree to Raiders Linebackers
Williams joins Las Vegas after serving as an assistant linebackers coach with the Philadelphia Eagles under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. His experience in Fangio’s scheme—known for disciplined, zone-heavy defenses—could translate well to Kubiak’s vision.
Background: Williams has coached at various levels, including college stints before entering the NFL. He emphasizes fundamentals, communication, and player development, qualities praised in fan reactions like “Very experienced staff to surround Leonard” from X user @raiders1022.
Fit for Raiders: With stars like Maxx Crosby anchoring the front, Williams will focus on elevating linebackers such as Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo. His fresh energy is seen as a boost, per comments like “Ronell and Al sound like a dynamic duo for Vegas” from @MSBIntel.
RONELL WILLIAMS - Via Eagles.com
RONELL WILLIAMS – Via Eagles.com
Al Holcomb: Veteran with Rings Joins as Senior Defensive Assistant
Holcomb, a seasoned coach with Super Bowl experience, brings championship pedigree to the Raiders. He most recently served as the Buffalo Bills’ linebackers coach and has held defensive coordinator roles with teams like the Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns.
Background: Holcomb’s resume includes rings with the New York Giants (Super Bowl XLVI) and extensive DC experience. He’s known for strategic insight and mentoring young defenses, as highlighted by X user @feftyone: “Holcomb’s veteran insight paired with Williams’ fresh perspective could really elevate the Raiders’ defensive schemes.”
Role in Las Vegas: As senior defensive assistant, Holcomb will provide high-level support to Leonard, focusing on overall strategy and depth. Fans like @IsaiahOdekina noted: “Staffing moves like this usually show a team sharpening focus on fundamentals and communication.”
Raiders Coaching Staff Taking Shape Under Klint Kubiak
These hires complete a defensive staff emphasizing experience and continuity. Kubiak, fresh off a Super Bowl win as Seattle’s OC, is assembling a group to maximize talents like Crosby while addressing 2025’s inconsistencies (the Raiders ranked mid-pack in yards allowed but struggled in key games).
Reactions on X were positive, with users like @draken1721 saying, “Raiders making moves like they actually want to win games this year,” and @SomeGuy00563983 noting Williams’ West Chester University roots: “From West Chester University!!!! #Goldenrams.”
The Raiders’ 2026 outlook improves with these additions, especially as free agency (March 11) and the draft approach. No official team statement has been released yet, but the hires signal a proactive rebuild.
Raiders fans: Excited about Williams and Holcomb? How do you see the defense improving in 2026? Drop your thoughts below—Silver and Black is loading up!
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