In sea of change, this assistant remains a constant

Luke Steckel has been retained as the Las Vegas Raiders' tight ends coach despite significant coaching staff changes implemented by new head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek.

Steckel's return is unsurprising given his role in overseeing Brock Bowers' record-setting rookie season. Bowers, the Raiders' 2024 first-round pick, set NFL rookie records with 112 receptions and 1,194 receiving yards as a tight end in his debut season. Retaining Steckel provides crucial continuity for Bowers, Michael Mayer, and Justin Shorter in the tight end room during a regime change.

Steckel expressed gratitude for the opportunity to remain with the Raiders, praising Carroll's high energy, positive mindset, and focus on culture. He now works alongside Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, whose offensive concepts are expected to be highly beneficial for the tight ends.

Despite his relatively young age (40), Steckel emphasizes an old-school coaching philosophy for tight ends: they must earn opportunities in the passing game by excelling as blockers in the run game first. He believes tight ends are "blockers first."

Improving the blocking skills of Bowers and Mayer, the Raiders' top tight ends, is seen as key to enhancing the offense. This is particularly relevant after the team used a high draft pick (6th overall in 2025) on running back Ashton Jeanty. While Bowers excelled as a receiver, refining his blocking presents an opportunity for growth.