Notre Dame Loses Running Backs Coach Deland McCullough to Raiders

 

 

 

Notre Dame’s potent rushing attack has been a hallmark of their recent success, and a key architect of that ground-and-pound philosophy is now heading to the NFL.  Deland McCullough, the Fighting Irish running backs coach and run-game coordinator, is expected to depart South Bend to accept the same position with the Las Vegas Raiders, according to multiple reports.  This move marks a return to the professional ranks for McCullough, who previously enjoyed a successful stint in the NFL.

McCullough’s tenure at Notre Dame began in 2022, coinciding with Marcus Freeman’s ascension to head coach.  Since then, the Irish running game has flourished under his guidance.  In 2023, Audric Estime emerged as a national powerhouse, bulldozing his way to 1,341 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns before being drafted by the Denver Broncos.  McCullough’s ability to develop talent was on full display with Estime’s breakout season.

The success story didn’t end with Estime’s departure.  Jeremiyah Love, a highly touted recruit brought to Notre Dame by McCullough himself, seamlessly stepped into the lead back role.  Love, an explosive and dynamic runner, showcased his game-breaking ability in 2024, racking up 1,125 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns.  His impressive performance has already ignited Heisman Trophy buzz for the upcoming season, a testament to McCullough’s coaching and Love’s exceptional talent.

Beyond the star power of Estime and Love, McCullough cultivated depth within the Notre Dame running backs room.  Jadarian Price, a versatile and speedy back, contributed significantly over the past two seasons, accumulating 1,018 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.  Price’s agility and potential suggest he could be the next in line to become a top-tier, NFL-caliber running back under McCullough’s tutelage.  The consistent production and development of multiple backs under McCullough highlights his ability to build a robust and versatile rushing attack.

McCullough’s move to the Raiders signifies his return to the NFL, where he previously made his mark as a running backs coach for the Kansas City Chiefs from 2018-2020, even earning a Super Bowl ring.  His return to the professional ranks is particularly intriguing given the recent hiring of Pete Carroll as the Raiders’ head coach.  The connection between McCullough and Carroll runs deep: McCullough’s father, Sherman Smith, served as the running backs coach for the Seattle Seahawks under Carroll from 2010-2017.  This pre-existing relationship likely played a significant role in McCullough’s decision to join the Raiders’ coaching staff.

The Raiders’ offensive coaching staff is taking shape with the addition of McCullough, following the earlier appointment of Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator.  Kelly, known for his innovative offensive schemes, brings a wealth of experience to Las Vegas.  Interestingly, Kelly was on the sidelines for Ohio State when they defeated Notre Dame in last month’s College Football Playoff National Championship game.  Now, he and McCullough will be working together to revitalize the Raiders’ offense.

McCullough’s departure leaves a significant void at Notre Dame.  He has proven to be an exceptional coach and recruiter, instrumental in the development of the Irish running backs and the overall success of their ground game.  His ability to identify, recruit, and develop talent will be difficult to replace.  The Fighting Irish will now be tasked with finding a coach who can maintain the high standard McCullough has set for their rushing attack.

For the Raiders, McCullough’s addition is a major coup.  He brings a proven track record of success at both the collegiate and professional levels.  His expertise in developing running backs, coupled with his familiarity with the NFL landscape, makes him a valuable asset to the Raiders’ coaching staff.  The combination of Kelly’s offensive mind and McCullough’s expertise in the running game has the potential to create a dynamic and explosive offensive attack in Las Vegas.  As the Raiders look to improve their fortunes, the contributions of McCullough and Kelly will be critical to their success.  The NFL world will be watching closely to see how this new coaching duo impacts the Raiders’ performance in the upcoming season.