Deland McCullough, who previously served as the running backs coach for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has officially accepted a new role with the Las Vegas Raiders for the upcoming 2025 season. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter in his coaching career, during which he made a lasting impact on the Notre Dame football program.
Heartfelt Farewell to Notre Dame
In a touching message shared on social media, McCullough expressed his gratitude to the Notre Dame community. He thanked key figures including head coach Marcus Freeman, athletic director Pete Bevacqua, and former athletic director Jack Swarbrick for the opportunity to be part of such a prestigious program. “Together, we made Team Glory and Reaching Our Full Potential a rallying call that has the Irish on the brink of consistent championship runs!!!” he tweeted.
McCullough also took a moment to acknowledge the running backs he coached during his tenure. He emphasized their commitment to “The Standard,” a philosophy that became integral to their success. “You guys were MY WHY during my tenure. Keep running the race 🐎 cause ya’ll know we always connected & I am always watching!!! Notre Dame football, Go Be Great!!! DMc,” he added, showcasing the strong bond he formed with his players.
Impact on Notre Dame’s Rushing Game
During his three years at Notre Dame, McCullough played a pivotal role in developing the team’s rushing attack. Last season, he guided Jeremiyah Love to a breakout year, with Love leading the team in rushing yards. He recorded an impressive 1,125 yards on 163 carries, scoring 17 touchdowns. One of his standout performances came in a decisive 35-14 victory over the Virginia Cavaliers, where he rushed for 137 yards and two touchdowns.
Under McCullough’s guidance, Notre Dame’s rushing offense ranked seventh in the league, accumulating a total of 3,215 rushing yards. His coaching not only enhanced individual player performance but also contributed to the team’s overall success on the field.
New Beginnings with the Las Vegas Raiders
As McCullough transitions to the NFL, he joins a Raiders team that is eager for a fresh start. Following a disappointing 4-13 record in the 2024 season, the Raiders are looking to turn the tide under new head coach Pete Carroll. One of the critical areas for improvement is their rushing offense, which finished last in the league with only 1,357 total rushing yards.
The decision to hire McCullough reflects the Raiders’ commitment to revitalizing their ground game. With his proven track record of success at the collegiate level, the team hopes he can help elevate their rushing attack and position them for a competitive season in the AFC West.
Looking Ahead
The Raiders’ struggles in the previous season highlighted the need for a more effective rushing strategy. By bringing in McCullough, they are not just filling a coaching position; they are investing in a vision for a more dynamic and potent offense. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his coaching philosophy translates to the NFL level.
McCullough’s experience and ability to connect with players will be crucial as he works to instill a sense of discipline and excellence within the Raiders’ running backs. The challenge is significant, but McCullough’s enthusiasm and dedication to the game are undeniable.
A Legacy of Excellence
While McCullough’s departure is certainly a loss for Notre Dame, his legacy will live on in the players he mentored and the successes they achieved together. As he embarks on this new journey with the Raiders, there is no doubt that he will carry the lessons learned at Notre Dame with him.
The excitement surrounding his new role is palpable, and fans are eager to see how he will impact the Raiders’ performance on the field. With a fresh start and a commitment to improvement, the future looks bright for both McCullough and the Las Vegas Raiders.
In the world of college football, transitions like this are common, but they also serve as a reminder of the relationships and legacies that coaches build along the way. McCullough’s heartfelt farewell to Notre Dame is a testament to the bonds formed within the sport, and as he steps into his new role, he will undoubtedly continue to inspire and lead with passion and purpose.
