Oakland Raiders GM Reggie McKenzie Supports Head Coach Dennis Allen

Aug. 17, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oakland Raiders head coach Dennis Allen against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Raiders 31-27. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-US PRESSWIRE

An altercation involving Oakland Raiders head coach Dennis Allen and inside linebacker Rolando McClain led to McClain being suspended two games for conduct detrimental to the team. Many could question Allen’s handling of the situation, but the most important opinion — Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie — stood behind Allen at Friday’s press conference.

When asked what kind of job Allen has done as a head coach, McKenzie was open with his support.

“I’m still pleased with Dennis. It’s like, I’m a rookie in this thing,” McKenzie said. “Dennis is a rookie in this thing. So I’m sure he has some rookie mistakes but overall I’m happy with Dennis.”

Allen was a defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos, so the fact that the Raiders defense has struggled during the 3-8 start to the season is cause for concern.

So despite the defensive struggles, is Allen’s job safe for next year after McKenzie’s comments?

“You know what, guys? Players, coaches, my scouts, I don’t care, the equipment guy, I’m not going to get after … from a standpoint of who’s safe, who’s in or out,” said McKenzie. “I don’t like to discuss anything during the season.

“It’s my job to evaluate this team, and that’s done on a weekly basis. So, at the end of this thing, I have my evaluation of not only coach Allen but every player and my thoughts of every coach. But that’s a season evaluation. That’s what I feel about that.”

McKenzie showed his support of the team’s head coach… for now. But it appears that no one is safe at the conclusion of the season.