Raiders Bolster Defensive Line Coaching with Travis Smith Hire
Las Vegas Raiders’ newly appointed head coach, Klint Kubiak, continues assembling his coaching team, most recently adding Travis Smith as the team’s defensive line coach. The announcement, reported by ESPN’s Ryan McFadden on Monday, signifies a key addition to the Raiders’ defensive staff as they prepare for the upcoming season. Smith brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of developing defensive talent to the Silver and Black.
Smith arrives in Las Vegas following a season as the defensive run game coordinator for the Tennessee Titans. During his tenure, the Titans’ run defense achieved a ranking of 15th in the league in total yards allowed. He played a significant role in the development of defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, who earned his fourth Pro Bowl selection and first First-Team All-Pro honor under Smith’s guidance.
A Familiar Face Returns to Las Vegas
This marks a return engagement with the Raiders organization for Travis Smith. He previously spent a decade with the club, from 2012 to 2021, steadily progressing from a defensive assistant coach to an assistant defensive line coach. His initial hiring came under then-Oakland Raiders head coach Dennis Allen, a connection that resonates with Klint Kubiak, who previously worked alongside Allen with the New Orleans Saints.
Notably, this appointment will see Smith work under his sixth head coach within the Raiders franchise – a list including Dennis Allen, Tony Sparano, Jack Del Rio, and Rich Bisaccia. Prior to rejoining the Raiders, Smith served as the defensive line coach for the Chicago Bears from 2022 to 2024. During his time in Chicago, he helped defensive end Montez Sweat achieve his first and only Pro Bowl selection following a mid-season trade in 2023.
Challenges and Opportunities on the Defensive Front
Travis Smith assumes responsibility for a defensive line currently under transition, previously coached by Rob Leonard, who is now the defensive coordinator. The unit faces considerable uncertainty, most prominently surrounding the future of star pass rusher Maxx Crosby and his potential continued presence with the team.
Beyond the Maxx Crosby situation, the Raiders possess a core of developing young defensive linemen, including Jonah Laulu, Thomas Booker (a restricted free agent), Tyree Wilson, Tonka Hemingway, and JJ Pegueus. Smith’s expertise will be crucial in nurturing these players and building a formidable defensive front as the team looks towards the 2026 season and beyond.
