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Day: February 17, 2026

Prioritizing Chiefs’ 2026 Free Agents | Analysis by Brian Moineau

Posted on by Brian Moineau

How the Chiefs should prioritize their 2026 free agents

The offseason is a delicate balancing act: keep the culture that wins, clear the cap that suffocates, and still put a team on the field that can win next fall. For the Kansas City Chiefs, the 2026 in-house free-agent picture reads like a how-to guide on those tradeoffs — and it forces the front office to choose which emotions to honor and which contracts to let go.

Below I break down the priority tiers the team should follow, why a few names matter more than others, and how cap realities (and a possible Kelce decision) should shape smart moves this spring.

Quick hits you should remember

  • Re-sign Travis Kelce if he wants to play and the price can be engineered to fit; his on-field value and locker-room leadership remain unique. (arrowheadpride.com)
  • Leo Chenal is a niche defender whose role is hard to replace; pay to keep that SAM versatility. (arrowheadpride.com)
  • The Chiefs are fighting cap pressure; big decisions likely mean cutting or letting several veterans walk. (arrowheadpride.com)
  • Prioritize one of the veteran DBs (Bryan Cook or Jaylen Watson) if a fair, team-friendly deal exists — but don’t overpay both. (arrowheadpride.com)

Why tiers make sense: context and constraints

The Arrowhead Pride piece laying out five priority tiers is a useful roadmap because it pairs football value with financial reality: “Keep no matter what,” “Try to keep but don’t overpay,” cost-conscious role players, clear departures, and bring-backs who can compete. Those buckets reflect an important truth — Kansas City simply can’t keep everyone. Some players are replaceable through scheme or the draft; others anchor the identity of the roster. (arrowheadpride.com)

That reality is amplified by the cap: reporting has indicated Kansas City faces a substantial over-cap figure heading into the new league year, which puts pressure on restructures, releases, or trades rather than generous market-rate extensions. Expect the front office to prioritize moves that create immediate space while preserving championship-level core pieces. (arrowheadpride.com)

Tier 1: Must-keep (and why)

  • Travis Kelce — If he wants to continue playing, bring him back. Kelce remains a matchup nightmare and the offense’s glue; beyond stats, his leadership and rapport with Patrick Mahomes are priceless. Do the creative cap work — restructure, bonuses, short-term deals — to make a Kelce return possible if he’s willing. (arrowheadpride.com)

  • Leo Chenal — A rare SAM linebacker who fits the Chiefs’ front and opens unique defensive looks. Teams don’t find many players who do what Chenal does; losing that fit-and-specialist would be costly in playoff matchups against elite run teams. (arrowheadpride.com)

Why this matters: keeping at least one uncompromisable stalwart on offense and one defensive specialist preserves the team’s competitive DNA. Letting both walk would force a philosophical reset.

Tier 2: Keep one if possible, but don’t break the bank

  • Bryan Cook and Jaylen Watson — Both are valuable in the secondary and deserve offers, but market forces may push them past what the Chiefs should pay. The sensible plan is to try to retain one — prioritize Watson for his role versatility, but take the cheaper, still-effective Cook if Watson’s price escalates. (arrowheadpride.com)

Practical thinking: the secondary can be replenished via the draft or cheaper veteran signings, but losing both creates immediate holes. One is worth fighting for.

Tier 3: Cost-conscious re-signings

  • Tyquan Thornton, Kareem Hunt, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Mike Pennel, James Winchester — These are role players who help depth and special situations. The Chiefs should pursue team-friendly, short-term deals for any they view as complementary pieces. Thornton provides vertical juice; Hunt and Smith-Schuster are reliable veterans with clear situational value. (arrowheadpride.com)

Cap-wise: these signings should be structured to minimize dead money and maximize flexibility (one-year deals, incentives, etc.).

Tier 4: Let them walk

  • Hollywood Brown, Isiah Pacheco, Charles Omenihu, Jerry Tillery, Derrick Nnadi, Gardner Minshew — Either their fit is waning, production dropped, or younger/cheaper options exist. Moving on frees space for targeted upgrades. (arrowheadpride.com)

This is not burn-it-down rhetoric — it’s roster math. Some veterans are valuable on the right deals, but not if those deals prevent keeping irreplaceable pieces.

Tier 5: Invite back to compete

  • Dameon Pierce, Joshua Williams, Nazeeh Johnson, Robert Tonyan, Mike Edwards and others — These are players worth bringing in for camp battles and depth. They can be low-cost additions with upside: sometimes competition reveals value, sometimes it points to the draft or the market for replacements. (arrowheadpride.com)

The Kelce factor: decision timeline and leverage

Travis Kelce has been clear in public comments that he may decide his future around the start of the new league year; the team deserves that clarity as it shapes draft plans and free-agent priorities. Whether he returns will dramatically change the Chiefs’ approach:

  • If Kelce signs on: expect cap gymnastics, possible small sacrifices elsewhere, and a one- or two-year deal designed to keep championship window open. (nbcsports.com)
  • If Kelce retires: the Chiefs should pivot to using that salary to rebuild depth and prioritize a long-term tight-end plan through FA or the draft.

Either way, Kelce’s decision is the hinge for much of Kansas City’s offseason choreography. (nbcsports.com)

Cap strategies the Chiefs will (or should) use

  • Restructure veteran deals into signing bonuses to create short-term space.
  • Trade or release one or two high-cap veterans if their roster value is replaceable. (arrowheadpride.com)
  • Prioritize re-signing only the absolute high-impact or unique-fit players; accept replacements elsewhere via draft or cheaper free agents.
  • Use short, incentive-laden deals for role players to preserve upside without long-term commitment.

My take

If Kansas City wants to remain in championship contention while rebuilding from the edges, the correct posture is surgical: re-sign the irreplaceable (Kelce if he wants to play; Chenal for that SAM fit), hold the line on one veteran DB, and let manageable veterans walk so the team has freedom to add younger talent. Emotion matters in Arrowhead, but the salary cap doesn’t — smart compromises and honest evaluations will determine whether the Chiefs can keep contending or face a tougher multi-year reset.

Final thoughts

The 2026 free-agent decisions are less a list of players and more a policy choice. Do the Chiefs preserve a championship core at the cost of short-term roster depth, or do they let a few icons move on to buy broader flexibility? Either route can be defensible — but the franchise’s hallmark should be making pragmatic moves that protect the team’s ability to win now and build sustainably for the next window.

Sources



Related update: We recently published an article that expands on this topic: read the latest post.

Related update: We recently published an article that expands on this topic: read the latest post.

Sweet Potato and Celery Soup | Made by Meaghan Moineau

Posted on by Meaghan Moineau

Sweet Potato and Celery Soup

Intro

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort to your soul. I remember as a child, coming home from school on chilly autumn days to the inviting aroma of my grandmother’s kitchen. She would often make a simple yet delicious soup that filled the house with warmth and love. This Sweet Potato and Celery Soup is inspired by those cherished memories, combining the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the refreshing crunch of celery. It’s a recipe that’s both nourishing and heartwarming, perfect for cozying up with on a cool evening.

Why You’ll Love It

This Sweet Potato and Celery Soup is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a hug in a bowl. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

  • Simple Ingredients: Made with just a handful of kitchen staples, this soup is easy to prepare and budget-friendly.
  • Rich in Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and celery creates a hearty, flavorful base, enhanced by aromatic herbs and spices.
  • Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this soup is a wholesome choice for a healthy meal.
  • Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 4 stalks of celery, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried sweet basil
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • Optional: croutons and fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet potatoes, celery, and onion. Sauté the vegetables for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
  2. Add the bay leaves, sweet basil, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are very soft.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat and allow the soup to cool slightly, which will make it safer to handle.
  5. Carefully transfer the soup to a food processor or blender in batches, and process until smooth. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
  6. Return the smooth soup to the pot and reheat gently over low heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with croutons and a sprinkle of fresh basil, if desired.

Tips

  • Chopping: For faster cooking, chop the vegetables into smaller, even pieces.
  • Blending: Be cautious when blending hot liquids. Allow the soup to cool slightly, and blend in batches to avoid overflow.
  • Consistency: For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture and combine with the unblended portion.

Variations & Substitutions

  • If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk or cream during the reheating stage.
  • For added protein, consider incorporating cooked lentils or chickpeas into the soup.
  • Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor twist.

Storage

Sweet Potato and Celery Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop over low heat.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and texture might vary.

Is this soup vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products. Ensure any garnishes, like croutons, are also vegan if you are following a strict vegan diet.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it as a starter to a larger meal.

Nutrition

While the exact nutritional content can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, this Sweet Potato and Celery Soup is generally low in calories and fat while being rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium, thanks to the sweet potatoes and celery.

Conclusion

This Sweet Potato and Celery Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and nourish your body. It’s a versatile recipe that welcomes customization and fits seamlessly into any meal plan. Whether you’re savoring it as a comforting solo meal or sharing it with loved ones, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. I hope it brings as much joy and warmth to your home as it does to mine.

Related Reading

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34 Alienware QD-OLED Ultrawide Deal | Analysis by Brian Moineau

Posted on by Brian Moineau

Presidents' Day OLED shock: a 34-inch Alienware QD-OLED under $500

Hook: If you've been waiting for OLED to finally become affordable, this is the kind of sale that makes you sit up, cancel your other tabs, and rethink your whole monitor budget. For a limited window around Presidents' Day 2026, Alienware’s acclaimed 34-inch curved QD-OLED ultrawide briefly fell below $500 — a price that would have sounded impossible for this class of display not long ago.

Why this deal matters right now

  • The Alienware AW3423DWF (34", 3440×1440, QD-OLED, 165 Hz) is a generationally notable monitor: quantum-dot OLED gives near-infinite contrast and very vivid colors, while the 21:9 ultrawide curve pulls you into games and movies in a way most IPS/VA displays can’t match. (tomshardware.com)
  • Historically this model has sat well above $600–$800; seeing it dip to roughly $499–$549 is a significant market move and signals inventory clearing or aggressive sale timing around Presidents' Day. Price trackers and deal sites recorded all-time lows in recent promotional windows. (dealfindings.com)
  • OLED monitors used to be luxury purchases; across 2024–2025 we watched prices slide as more QD-OLED panels and competing models arrived. That trend is now visible in real discounts on top-tier models, making OLED an attainable upgrade for many gamers. (tomshardware.com)

What you actually get with the AW3423DWF

  • 34-inch curved 21:9 ultrawide (1800R), 3440×1440 resolution.
  • QD-OLED panel: deep blacks, excellent HDR contrast, wide color gamut (near DCI-P3 coverage).
  • 165 Hz refresh rate, sub-millisecond response characteristics (excellent for both immersive single‑player and competitive play).
  • G-Sync compatible and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro support; useful connectivity including DisplayPort and HDMI and a built-in USB hub on many configurations. (tomshardware.com)

Who should consider buying at this price

  • Gamers with mid-to-high-end GPUs looking for a step up in image quality (richer colors, better HDR, true blacks) without jumping to a 4K OLED or a monstrous ultrawide.
  • Content creators who benefit from strong color accuracy and contrast for video/photo work and can live with 3440×1440 instead of 4K.
  • Anyone upgrading from a 60–144 Hz IPS or VA panel: the visual and motion improvements from QD-OLED are often the single most noticeable upgrade to a desktop experience. (tomshardware.com)

A few practical cautions

  • OLED burn-in risk: modern QD-OLEDs include mitigation tools and manufacturer guidance, but static UI elements and long-term static content can still be a concern. Use built-in pixel shifting, screen savers, and varied content to reduce risk. (tomshardware.com)
  • Bright-room performance: OLEDs, while excellent for contrast and HDR, can have lower sustained peak brightness than some high-end mini-LED LCDs — if you sit in very bright lighting you may notice differences. (tomshardware.com)
  • Stock and price volatility: previous sub-$500 windows for this model have been short-lived and tied to specific sales events or clearance runs; expect prices to rebound once inventory tightens. (dealfindings.com)

Smart shopping checklist (quick)

  • Confirm the exact model code (AW3423DWF / AW3423DW variants differ slightly in stand/connectivity).
  • Check return policy and warranty — Dell/Alienware and major retailers typically offer reasonable return windows, which matters for a premium panel.
  • Make sure your GPU outputs match the monitor’s best modes (DisplayPort for full refresh rates and features).
  • Compare with contemporaneous QD-OLED options (Samsung, LG, MSI) if you want different refresh-rate or size trade-offs. (hothardware.com)

How this fits into the bigger picture

This price event is a marker of a maturing OLED monitor market. Over the past two years we’ve seen more QD-OLED and OLED designs trickle down from flagship price tiers, thanks to increased panel supply and competition. Sales like Presidents' Day — plus inventory clearances for older SKUs as newer models arrive — are the moments when early adopters’ “one day” wishlist becomes today’s checkout cart. (tomshardware.com)

Quick wins if you buy

  • Use the monitor’s Creator/Calibration modes when doing color-sensitive work.
  • Enable any pixel-refresh or burn-in mitigation functions and avoid leaving static HUDs or toolbars on-screen for long periods.
  • Pair with good cables (DisplayPort 1.4) and double-check GPU driver settings for ultrawide scaling and refresh rates.

My take

Seeing a 34‑inch QD‑OLED under $500 is more than a good sale — it’s a milestone. For many people who’ve been priced out of true OLED desktop displays, this kind of deal makes an aspirational upgrade practical. If you value contrast, color richness, and immersion over absolute pixel density or the very highest sustained HDR brightness, this is one of the best value jumps you can make in 2026. That said, act thoughtfully: OLED panels have trade-offs, and short-lived pricing means the window to decide will likely be narrow.

Sources

(Note: prices and stock around Presidents' Day 2026 were time-sensitive; consult retailer listings for the exact, current price and availability.)



Related update: We recently published an article that expands on this topic: read the latest post.

Chorizo and egg bake | Made by Meaghan Moineau

Posted on by Meaghan Moineau

Chorizo and Egg Bake

Intro

There's something truly comforting about the aroma of chorizo sizzling in the kitchen. It takes me back to the lazy Sunday mornings of my childhood, where my family would gather around the table for a hearty breakfast. My grandmother would whip up an amazing chorizo and egg bake, and we'd all dig in with gusto, sharing stories and laughter. This recipe is a nod to those cherished moments, combining the warmth of nostalgia with the robustness of flavors that only chorizo can provide.

Why You'll Love It

This Chorizo and Egg Bake is a delightful dish that's perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a fulfilling brunch, or a simple dinner option, this recipe has got you covered. You'll love it for its simplicity, requiring minimal preparation, yet delivering maximum flavor. The smoky spiciness of the chorizo paired with the creamy eggs and melted cheddar creates an irresistible combination that will have you coming back for more. Plus, it's a one-dish wonder, meaning less cleanup time and more time to enjoy with your loved ones.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
  • 200g smoked chorizo sausage, sliced
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can of red and green chilli, drained and chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth and slightly frothy.
  3. Add the grated cheddar cheese, chopped onion, sliced chorizo, minced garlic, and chopped chilli to the eggs.
  4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, then stir until all ingredients are well combined.
  5. Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Pour the egg and chorizo mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and the eggs are set.
  8. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips

For the best results, use high-quality smoked chorizo sausage; its smoked flavor adds depth to the dish. If you prefer a little more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of sourdough bread or a fresh green salad.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. If you're not a fan of chorizo, you could substitute it with Italian sausage or even bacon. For a vegetarian option, replace the chorizo with mushrooms or bell peppers.

Storage

This Chorizo and Egg Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well; simply cut into portions and freeze in individual containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture and pour it into the baking dish the night before. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven for a quick and easy breakfast.

What can I serve with this bake?

This dish is quite versatile. It pairs well with a simple green salad, avocado slices, or some crusty bread. For breakfast, consider serving it with hash browns or a fresh fruit salad.

Can I add vegetables to this bake?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in some chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, or sliced mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Nutrition

This dish is packed with protein from the eggs and chorizo, making it a satisfying meal choice. The cheddar cheese adds calcium and richness, while the garlic and onions provide beneficial antioxidants. Remember to keep portion sizes in mind, especially if you're watching your calorie intake.

Conclusion

The Chorizo and Egg Bake is more than just a meal; it's a comforting embrace from the past, brought to life with each savory bite. Whether you're sharing it with family around the breakfast table or enjoying it solo on a quiet evening, this dish promises to deliver warmth, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia. I hope you try this recipe and create new memories while relishing the old. Enjoy!

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Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese | Made by Meaghan Moineau

Posted on by Meaghan Moineau

Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Intro

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of mac and cheese. It takes me back to chilly autumn afternoons at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma of cheese and spices filled the air, making everything feel just right. As a child, I remember peeking into the oven, eagerly waiting for that bubbly, golden crust to form. Now, with a modern twist, I bring you a creamy vegan butternut squash mac and cheese that pays homage to those nostalgic days while embracing a more plant-based lifestyle. It’s a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a cozy meal for one.

Why You’ll Love It

This creamy vegan butternut squash mac and cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that will satisfy your cravings without any dairy. Here’s why you’ll love it:

  • Rich and Creamy: The butternut squash puree adds a velvety texture that perfectly mimics traditional cheese sauce.
  • Healthy Ingredients: With nutritional yeast and butternut squash, this dish is packed with vitamins and minerals.
  • Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a perfect family dinner option.
  • Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this dish any day of the week.
  • Great for Entertaining: Impress your guests with a dish that’s both comforting and health-conscious.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup pureed butternut squash
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup light soy milk
  • 2 tablespoons vegan buttery spread
  • 1 cup vegan cheddar shreds
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium heat. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook until pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. While waiting for the pasta to cook, begin preparing your sauce. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the vegan buttery spread over medium heat.
  4. Add in the nutritional yeast and mix together to form a paste.
  5. Slowly add the soy milk, whisking continuously to ensure a lump-free sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken.
  6. Stir in the pureed butternut squash, mixing thoroughly to ensure everything is well blended. The butternut squash will also help to thicken the sauce.
  7. Add the vegan cheddar shreds and let sit for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the sauce has a creamy, velvety smooth consistency.
  8. Remove the sauce from heat and let it sit for a moment.
  9. Drain the pasta and add it to the cheese sauce. Stir together until the pasta is well coated.
  10. Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 9-inch baking pan.
  11. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the macaroni and cheese.
  12. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese begins to bubble and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  13. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy vegan home-style comfort food!

Tips

  • For extra creaminess, add a splash more soy milk if the sauce is too thick.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
  • To make your own breadcrumbs, simply toast some stale bread and pulse it in a food processor until fine.

Variations & Substitutions

This dish is versatile and adaptable to suit your preferences:

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
  • Nut-Free: Ensure that your vegan cheddar shreds and buttery spread are nut-free if allergies are a concern.
  • Vegetable Add-ins: Stir in some cooked broccoli or peas for added nutrition and texture.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of plant-based milk?

Yes, you can substitute light soy milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk of your choice. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to avoid altering the flavor of the dish.

What can I use instead of butternut squash?

If you don’t have butternut squash on hand, pureed pumpkin or sweet potato are great alternatives that will still provide that rich, creamy texture and a touch of sweetness.

Nutrition

This creamy vegan butternut squash mac and cheese is a nutritious meal option. The butternut squash provides a good source of vitamins A and C, while the nutritional yeast adds a boost of B vitamins. Plus, it’s lower in fat compared to traditional mac and cheese, making it a heart-healthy choice.

Conclusion

This creamy vegan butternut squash mac and cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, reminiscent of cherished memories yet perfectly suited for today’s culinary trends. Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish promises to deliver comfort and satisfaction. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do!

Related Reading

Related update: Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Janocko Named Raiders Offensive Chief | Analysis by Brian Moineau

Posted on by Brian Moineau

New Voice in the Silver and Black: Andrew Janocko Takes Over as Raiders Offensive Coordinator

An offseason shake-up just got a fresh headline: the Las Vegas Raiders have officially named Andrew Janocko their offensive coordinator. If you’re into coaching trees, quarterback development or the slow, careful work of rebuilding an offense, this hire deserves a close look — and not just because it continues Klint Kubiak’s habit of importing trusted collaborators.

Janocko arrives after a fast-moving climb through NFL offensive rooms, most recently serving as the Seattle Seahawks’ quarterbacks coach during their 2025 championship season. He brings more than a decade of coaching experience and a reputation for developing quarterbacks and installing detail-oriented, timing-based concepts. For a Raiders offense that finished near the bottom of the league in 2025, the timing feels deliberate.

Why this hire matters

  • Janocko is young but seasoned: his résumé includes stops with the Seahawks, Saints, Bears, Vikings and Buccaneers, plus college coaching early in his career.
  • He’s part of Klint Kubiak’s familiar circle — they’ve worked together at multiple stops — which suggests continuity of offensive philosophy even as the Raiders attempt to change results.
  • This will be Janocko’s first season as a full-time offensive coordinator, but he joins a staff where Kubiak is expected to call plays, which can ease the transition while allowing Janocko to focus on scheme details and quarterback coaching.

Where Janocko comes from

  • Seattle Seahawks (2025): Quarterbacks coach on a Super Bowl-winning staff. The Seahawks finished near the top of the league in scoring and offensive efficiency that season, and their QB play was a key ingredient.
  • New Orleans Saints (2024): Quarterbacks coach, helping veteran Derek Carr produce efficient numbers and a high third-down passer rating.
  • Chicago Bears (2022–23): Instrumental in the development of Justin Fields, working on the balance between Fields’ dynamic rushing ability and his passing growth.
  • Minnesota Vikings and earlier roles: Multiple offensive roles that exposed him to zone concepts, timing-based passing games and player-specific development work.

Those stops illustrate a consistent theme: Janocko has coached or worked alongside quarterbacks at several stages of their careers — young, mobile signal-callers and seasoned veterans alike. That versatility is a useful attribute for a Raiders roster that could blend young talent with experienced pieces.

What to expect schematically

  • Continuity with Kubiak’s offense: Expect West Coast elements, quick timing throws, and a willingness to use RPOs and run-pass complement concepts. Kubiak’s presence means playcalling continuity, with Janocko handling game-planning and QB preparation.
  • Emphasis on quarterback mechanics and decision-making: Janocko’s track record suggests attention to completion percentage, pre-snap reads and third-down efficiency.
  • Adaptability: Janocko has worked with both mobile and pocket passers, which should let the Raiders tailor their approach to the personnel they actually have — and the likely roster additions in the offseason and draft.

The roster fit and implications

  • Quarterback development: If the Raiders are leaning into a young QB (including any 2026 draft pick or recent acquisition), Janocko’s experience with young signal-callers will be central to their progression.
  • Offensive line and run game: The Raiders’ 2025 offense struggled in many areas. Janocko’s arrival won’t instantly fix line play or run-blocking, but his history of integrating passing concepts that help neutralize defensive pressure could buy time for the unit to improve.
  • Coaching continuity: Several members of Kubiak’s Seattle staff are joining Las Vegas, which suggests a cohesive installation process and a quicker ramp-up during spring and training camp.

Things to watch this season

  • How early Janocko’s concepts appear in offseason practices and whether the offense shows cleaner timing and fewer turnovers in the preseason.
  • Quarterback progress on completion rate, third-down conversion and decision-making under pressure — areas Janocko has influenced in prior stops.
  • Play-caller dynamics between Kubiak and Janocko in games: will Kubiak maintain playcalling control, or will Janocko have in-game autonomy on certain packages?

A few data-backed expectations: Seattle’s offense was top-10 in scoring during the Super Bowl season Janocko coached there; Derek Carr’s efficiency numbers under Janocko in New Orleans were notably strong; and Justin Fields’ growth while Janocko was on staff with the Bears showed an ability to coach both the pass and QB mobility into the offense.

Quick snapshot of why fans should care

  • This is a hire that blends familiarity with fresh authority: a trusted Kubiak aide stepping into a coordinator role.
  • The Raiders’ offense needs culture and structure; Janocko’s background suggests he brings both teaching chops and modern schematic ideas.
  • For fans hoping to see a turnaround, this hire raises legitimate optimism — not guaranteed, but sensible.

Immediate takeaways

  • Janocko’s hire signals a continuity-first rebuild under Klint Kubiak’s leadership.
  • He brings strong quarterback development credentials and experience from a recent championship staff.
  • Expect a West Coast/RPO-leaning offense with an emphasis on timing, third-down efficiency and quarterback mechanics.

My take

This is a smart, low-drama hire. The Raiders didn’t bring in a headline-grabbing, high-variance play-caller; they added a detailed-minded coach from a successful staff who knows how to teach quarterbacks and install structure. For a team that needs foundational upgrades more than flashy schematic changes, Janocko fits the checklist: familiar to the head coach, proven in player development roles, and experienced across multiple offensive systems. The bigger question remains the same — can the Raiders fix the offensive trenches and give Janocko a quarterback and line that let his concepts breathe? If they do, this hire could look very shrewd by season’s end.

Sources



Related update: We recently published an article that expands on this topic: read the latest post.

Related update: We recently published an article that expands on this topic: read the latest post.