Pete Carroll, the seasoned NFL coach, has been appointed to lead the Las Vegas Raiders as they embark on a new season. Carroll’s history in the game is both long and deep. He has served as head coach for the New York Jets, New England Patriots, and Seattle Seahawks. At 73 years of age, he returns to the competitive, intimidating task of resuscitating the Raiders. After stumbling to a deadly 4-13 last season, the team hasn’t tasted playoff football since 2021.
He has shown an exceptional ability to develop young talent. That skill will be essential as he leads an offense featuring rookie RB Ashton Jeanty, a Heisman Trophy finalist, and second-year TE Brock Bowers. Getting each of these young animals slotted into the team’s offensive scheme will be essential in helping turn this mess around.
Carroll’s coaching credentials are impressive. He was part of the Seahawks’ Super Bowl XLVII victory during the 2013 season. With nine career seasons of at least 10 wins, he’s one of just five coaches in the history of the NFL with that many. He started his coaching career at the New York Cosmos in 1994. That season, he finished with a 6-10 record. From there he would go on to New England. In his initial year, he brought the team to a 10-6 record and took them to first place in the AFC East. In three seasons with the Patriots—during the Peterson Era— Carroll compiled a 33-31 record before being replaced by current head coach Bill Belichick.
In Seattle, Carroll experienced remarkable success, including a Super Bowl victory and multiple playoff appearances. Despite these problems, he was able to piece together a successful first season in 2010. During his tenure, his defense ranked 25th in points allowed and 27th in yards allowed. Barring these failures, Carroll has only netted a losing record four times in his 18-year coaching career.
As he makes the move to his fourth NFL franchise, Carroll knows they’re not going to be easy. He strikes a hopeful note in his focus on developing young talent, but clearly he doesn’t expect the Raiders to roll over and play dead.
“It’s hard to be confident until you’ve really gone through it, so that’s the problem with playing rookies.” – Pete Carroll
With the recent uncertainty about rookies having a measurable impact on this beautiful game of ours, Carroll can still be excited about what his team could bring. He has a remarkable track record of successfully integrating young players into his system. He’s committed to ensuring it happens again.
“I’ve never had an issue with that. I’ve always played young guys and helped them make it through it, and we’ll do much of the same with our guys now.” – Pete Carroll
The excitement in Carroll’s voice is obvious as he talks about his expectations for the 2020 season. He firmly believes that winning is attainable.
“We are going to win a bunch of games. I can’t even imagine anything else.” – Pete Carroll
After a decade-plus of championship-caliber dominance, including nine seasons with ten or more wins, Carroll’s standard is unmistakable.
“I’ve been winning 10 games a year for 20 years or something, you know? I mean, what are my expectations? We are going to win a bunch, and I don’t care who hears that.” – Pete Carroll
Carroll is treating this as an exciting opportunity.
“I’m thrilled to be in the position where it looks like all odds are against you.” – Pete Carroll
The Raiders will rely on their new coach’s experience and leadership as they seek to turn around their fortunes this season. And with Jeanty and Bowers orchestrating the offense, fans will have plenty of hopeful expectations out of spring ball regarding a revival.
Impact Running back Raheem Mostert, an offensive leader in his own right, seemed encouraged by what he felt optimistic was a better team dynamic under Carroll’s direction.
“To be able to have Chip and Geno and all these pieces around, it’s a good feeling.” – Raheem Mostert
Mostert’s feelings are indicative of the Miami Dolphins’ locker room — they believe something special is brewing in South Beach. He wasn’t shy about letting strong feelings out about the offense.
“I have a strong feeling about this offense. It’s something that I haven’t felt for quite some time. I mean no disrespect to my previous employers.” – Raheem Mostert
The Raiders have a tough road to travel. With Carroll at the helm, and an intriguing mix of young talent and savvy veterans, they’re well-equipped to right the ship. All eyes among the fan community will be on the new season as it starts this weekend.
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