Notre Dame running backs coach Deland McCullough announced his departure from the Fighting Irish football program with a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter). Blue & Gold confirmed Thursday night that McCullough was headed back to the NFL to coach running backs for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Under Deland McCullough’s guidance, Notre Dame football produced consecutive 1,000-yard rushers the past two seasons.

McCullough's exit is another high-profile loss for Freeman. In the days immediately following the CFP title bout, Al Golden returned to the NFL to become defensive coordinator of the Cincinnati Bengals. Golden had been a Broyles Award finalist in 2024 and regarded as one of the top-tier defensive coordinators in college football.

Notre Dame fans were met with some disappointment on Wednesday night when it was announced that running back Coach Deland McCullough was leaving to take the same position with the Las Vegas Raiders. A massive blow for the program,

The Las Vegas Raiders have hired Pete Carroll as their new head coach. He is building his new staff. He has reportedly hired Deland McCullough as their running backs coach. Let’s get to know McCullough better: Last job: McCullough was Notre Dame’s running backs coach since 2022.

The Las Vegas Raiders are looking to turn the franchise around next season. The Raiders have made multiple moves so far this offseason to show that they are ser