Breaking News: Deland McCullough to Become the Next Running Backs Coach of the Las Vegas Raiders
In a significant shakeup for both the college and professional football worlds, Deland McCullough, the highly regarded running backs coach at Notre Dame, is set to join the NFL ranks as the new running backs coach for the Las Vegas Raiders. This announcement marks a notable step in McCullough’s career, as he transitions from the college football scene to the professional stage, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success.
McCullough’s Coaching Journey
Deland McCullough’s coaching career has been defined by his ability to develop running backs into standout players. After serving as a player in the NFL and in the CFL, McCullough turned to coaching, where he made a name for himself by molding running backs into elite athletes capable of excelling at the highest levels. McCullough’s journey as a coach began at the University of Miami in 2005 as a graduate assistant. However, it was his later stints at the University of Indiana, the University of Southern California (USC), and with the Kansas City Chiefs that truly solidified his reputation as one of the best in his field.
During his time at Indiana, McCullough quickly gained recognition for his ability to develop running backs and lead productive ground games. He then moved on to USC, where he continued to help develop NFL-caliber running backs, and eventually made his way to the NFL as the running backs coach for the Kansas City Chiefs. With the Chiefs, McCullough played a pivotal role in helping to develop key players like Damien Williams and Clyde Edwards-Helaire, both of whom contributed to the team’s success, including their Super Bowl LIV victory in 2020.
Return to College Football and Success at Notre Dame
In 2022, McCullough returned to the college ranks, taking on the role of running backs coach at Notre Dame, under head coach Marcus Freeman. During his time with the Fighting Irish, McCullough made an immediate impact, significantly improving the team’s rushing attack. He played a key role in the development of running backs like Audric Estime and Jeremiyah Love, both of whom demonstrated great promise under his coaching.
McCullough’s time at Notre Dame was marked by significant achievements. One of his most notable accomplishments came in 2023 when he helped develop a dynamic duo in Estime and Love, both of whom exceeded expectations and became key contributors to the team’s success. McCullough’s coaching also resulted in a team that produced back-to-back 1,000-yard rushers, a feat that had only been accomplished three times in the program’s history. His ability to work with a variety of running backs and make the most of their skills was instrumental in Notre Dame’s continued success.
The Move to the Las Vegas Raiders
McCullough’s transition to the Las Vegas Raiders represents a significant career move, as it is his return to the NFL ranks. The Raiders’ decision to hire McCullough comes at a time when they are looking to bolster their offense and improve their ground game. McCullough’s track record of success in both college and professional football made him an ideal candidate for the position. His experience with NFL-caliber talent and his ability to develop running backs into high-level performers will be an asset to the Raiders as they look to improve their offensive strategies.
The Raiders’ running back room has seen some turbulence in recent years, with players like Josh Jacobs and others struggling to find consistent success. McCullough will now have the task of working with the Raiders’ current crop of running backs to develop a more effective and reliable rushing attack. His presence in the coaching staff is expected to bring a fresh perspective and new energy to the position.
Why McCullough is the Right Fit for the Raiders
McCullough’s reputation as a running backs coach who can elevate players to the next level is well-earned. His experience in both college and the NFL gives him a unique perspective on the needs of professional football players, particularly running backs. During his time with the Chiefs, McCullough worked under head coach Andy Reid, learning the nuances of the NFL game and understanding the demands of coaching at the highest level. This experience will prove invaluable as he steps into his new role with the Raiders.
The Raiders are currently rebuilding their offense, and McCullough’s ability to develop players will be critical in helping the team achieve its goals. His work with Estime and Love at Notre Dame is a prime example of his ability to work with a diverse group of running backs, and his success with the Chiefs further highlights his expertise in coaching the position.
The Impact on Notre Dame
McCullough’s departure from Notre Dame will undoubtedly leave a significant void in the team’s coaching staff. Under his tutelage, the Notre Dame running backs were able to achieve significant success, and his departure marks the end of a highly productive chapter for the Fighting Irish. Notre Dame will now need to find a successor capable of maintaining the high standards McCullough set for the program’s running backs.
However, McCullough’s legacy at Notre Dame will be remembered for his ability to maximize the potential of his players, helping to turn talented prospects into standout college athletes. His work with the team’s running backs helped create a balanced offensive attack that was one of the team’s most consistent strengths.
Looking Ahead
For McCullough, this move to the Las Vegas Raiders represents a new challenge and a chance to further establish himself as one of the top running backs coaches in the NFL. With his deep understanding of the game and his proven ability to develop talent, McCullough will be tasked with reviving the Raiders’ ground game and ensuring that the team’s running backs reach their full potential.
As the NFL and college football worlds continue to evolve, McCullough’s rise to an NFL coaching position exemplifies the growing trend of talented coaches making the leap from college to professional football. His success in both arenas speaks to his versatility and his ability to adapt to different levels of competition. As he embarks on this new chapter of his career, the Raiders will be looking to McCullough to provide the same level of success he delivered at Notre Dame and beyond.
In conclusion, Deland McCullough’s move to the Las Vegas Raiders is a significant development for both his career and the future of the Raiders’ running backs. His expertise and coaching style will have a lasting impact on the team as they work to develop a strong, efficient rushing attack for years to come.
