Pleasant, who has been with the Rams in two stints, most recently serving as defensive pass game coordinator and assistant head coach, is among multiple candidates tied to the Raiders’ DC search. He previously interviewed for the Cardinals’ defensive coordinator role but the position ultimately went to Nick Rallis.
The interest arrives as the Rams face potential turnover on Sean McVay’s coaching staff following the departures of offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur to the Arizona Cardinals and continued speculation around other assistants. Pleasant would bring more than a decade of NFL experience if he moves to Las Vegas, where he would join a defense led by notable players such as edge rusher Maxx Crosby.
In addition to Pleasant, the Raiders reportedly plan to interview other internal candidates, including defensive line coach Rob Leonard, who has strong ties with Crosby and could influence the team’s defensive direction. The ongoing DC search comes as Las Vegas builds its staff under new leadership and as several teams finalize their hires across the league.
For Rams observers, Pleasant’s candidacy underscores the broader coaching-market movement surrounding McVay’s staff, with multiple coordinators and assistants already drawing interest from other franchises. The outcome could impact both the Rams’ continuity and the Raiders’ defensive philosophy in the upcoming season.
