The Las Vegas Raiders announced the hiring of Super Bowl-winning coach Pete Carroll on Friday, cementing the franchise's decision to turn to experience as it seeks stability following a turbulent coaching period. Carroll, who is 73 years old and will be the oldest head coach in NFL history, agreed to terms on a three-year contract with the Raiders, which includes a fourth-year team option, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Carroll’s appointment follows the team's disappointing 2024 season where they ended up at the bottom of the AFC West with a 4-13 record. This led to the firing of interim coach Antonio Pierce and the need for the franchise to seek serious change. The hiring is seen as both bold and necessary, positioning Carroll as the fifth permanent head coach since the Raiders relocated to Vegas from Oakland.
Carroll boasts an impressive resume, having guided the Seattle Seahawks to significant victories, including winning Super Bowl XLVIII, and earning 10 playoff appearances throughout his tenure. His career record stands at 181-131-1, reflecting his consistent ability to lead teams to success. "You can’t overlook the resume of this guy. He’s one of the only coaches to have ever won both college and NFL championships," noted ESPN analyst Adam Schefter.
The 73-year-old coaching veteran’s familiarity with team dynamics is expected to aid the Raiders significantly, especially as they adjust to rebuilding their roster. Carroll is known for his culture-building techniques and has expressed his desire to instill these values within the Raiders organization. He emphasizes positivity and competition, values particularly needed after the chaotic environment under previous head coaches.
Carroll's return to the NFL after spending 2024 away from coaching also highlights his commitment to the game. Despite his age, he remains highly regarded for his knack for connecting with players and fostering effective team communication.
The hiring has ignited discussions about potential player movements within the Raiders. The most notable speculation surrounds quarterback Russell Wilson, previously under Carroll’s mentorship with the Seahawks. Reports surfaced from The Athletic’s Jeff Howe indicating, “With Pete Carroll taking over the Raiders, one name I've heard to watch at QB: Russell Wilson.” Wilson, who had been at odds with Carroll before his departure, appears to have mended fences, sparking questions about his potential return to Las Vegas.
While many believe Wilson could be the solution to the Raiders’ quarterback conundrum, it leaves others like Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew on shaky ground, as they may find themselves pushed out of the starting conversation should Wilson materialize as an option. The fear among these quarterbacks stems from Carroll’s history of pursuing players he knows and trusts, and the market for quarterbacks might shrink with limited options available.
Another ripple effect of Carroll's hiring will be felt on the defensive front. With Carroll known for his defensive acumen, edge rusher Maxx Crosby may find himself less likely to be traded, as Carroll likely prioritizes retaining proven defensive talent. Analysts note, “Carroll could promise Crosby team stability and financial investment,” leading to speculation about whether Crosby’s skilled presence will be nurtured within the prior coaching structures.
Looking forward, the Raiders will have to make strategic decisions with the No. 6 pick in the upcoming NFL draft. The expectations of Carroll are sky-high, requiring him to quickly assess talent and potentially establish relationships with his former assistant coaches. Potential candidates for the Raiders’ staff may include Shane Waldron, who orchestrated the Seahawks’ offense, or Gus Bradley, Carroll's past defensive coordinator.
Tom Brady’s involvement as part-owner of the Raiders adds another layer to Carroll’s hiring. Brady's influence during the hiring process has been noted, with many seeing his input as pivotal for bringing credibility back to the franchise. The collaboration between Brady and Carroll is expected to evoke new strategies and football philosophies within the organization.
The mix of Carroll’s experience paired with Brady’s modern approach suggests the Raiders are serious about turning the franchise around. Through strategic investing of their considerable salary cap space, estimated to be nearly $108 million, and capitalizing on Carroll’s past success, the Raiders hope to transform their fortunes moving forward.
While analysts recognize the merits of hiring Carroll, they also caution the risks involved with entering the competitive AFC West, where established coaches like Andy Reid and Sean Payton helm rival franchises. Carlo’s success will hinge on his ability to adapt and innovate within this challenging division, reinforcing the urgency for quick results following tumultuous seasons.
The Raiders’ search for respectability has taken another turn, one filled with both hope and skepticism. Questions linger on whether this hire will finally provide the stability and success the franchise has long sought, but optimism flows through the fanbase, ignited by Carroll’s storied past and leadership style.