Pete Carroll, renowned for his vibrant energy that rivals that of coaches much younger than his 74 years, is set to become the new head coach for the Raiders in Las Vegas. This decision reflects the team’s hope that Carroll’s enthusiasm and noteworthy experience can revitalize the franchise after less successful attempts with younger coaching talents since the Raiders relocated in 2020.
The Raiders have reached a preliminary agreement with Carroll for a three-year contract, along with a one-year option for the team, as confirmed by a source familiar with the situation who preferred anonymity due to the contract being in the finalization stage. Carroll is expected to be the oldest head coach in the league next season, eclipsing Kansas City’s Andy Reid, who is currently 66.
Carroll previously coached the Seattle Seahawks for 14 seasons, leading them to two NFC championships and securing the team’s only Super Bowl victory. His return to coaching follows the conclusion of the 2023 season, and he re-enters a highly competitive AFC West division packed with accomplished coaches and quarterbacks.
Renowned figures in the NFL, such as Bill Belichick, have recognized Carroll’s energy, suggesting that he can maintain a high level of performance despite his age. The Raiders’ ownership group includes Tom Brady, who has significant influence over the hiring process. This connection is particularly notable as Brady triumphed over Carroll’s Seahawks a decade ago in a memorable Super Bowl matchup. Recently, the team appointed John Spytek, formerly of the Buccaneers, as general manager, further hinting at a strategic restructuring.
The previous head coach, Antonio Pierce, was dismissed following a subpar 4-13 record in his first full season, which came after he served as interim coach in 2023, boasting a 5-4 record at that time. Carroll’s hiring marks a change in leadership, making him the 14th head coach since Jon Gruden’s departure to Tampa Bay, and the fifth since the Raiders’ relocation.
Historically, the Raiders have celebrated three Super Bowl victories and embraced a mission of “Commitment to Excellence.” However, their recent performance has dwindled, with only two playoff appearances since their championship run in the 2002 season, both of which ended unsuccessfully in the wild-card round.
One of Carroll’s primary tasks will be addressing the quarterback position in a division that boasts elite talents, including Patrick Mahomes of the Chiefs, Justin Herbert from the Chargers, and Bo Nix of the Broncos. Mahomes is vying for his fourth Super Bowl championship and third consecutive title, while both Herbert and Nix are developing into prominent quarterbacks.
As the Raiders hold the sixth pick in the upcoming draft, they may miss out on top prospects like Shedeur Sanders from Colorado and Miami’s Cam Ward unless a trade occurs. The free-agent market appears to offer limited options, potentially placing Aidan O’Connell back as the starter.
Despite these hurdles, the Raiders will have approximately $100 million in salary-cap space, allowing Carroll to enhance the overall roster. Carroll’s coaching legacy includes stints with the New York Jets and New England Patriots before establishing himself at Seattle. His current coaching record stands at 170-120-1, making him the third individual since 1940 to lead at least four different teams in the NFL, joining notable figures like Bill Parcells and Marty Schottenheimer.
