In a move that might have flown under the radar, the Las Vegas Raiders have made waves by bringing veteran head coach Pete Carroll back into the NFL fold. Carroll, who carved his legacy with the Seattle Seahawks, leading them to a Super Bowl title, is set to usher in a fresh chapter for the Raiders alongside their new minority owner, the legendary Tom Brady.
It’s no secret—this offseason is pivotal for the Raiders. They’re tasked with reimagining a team that stumbled to a 4-13 record last season, resulting in the exit of head coach Antonio Pierce. Carroll’s appointment marks a bold stride toward revitalizing the team’s fortunes and rekindling the Raiders’ storied glory days.
One glaring issue needing Carroll’s immediate attention is the Raiders’ lackluster ground game. The team closed out the 2024 season dead last in rushing, averaging a paltry 79.8 yards per game, and didn’t see a single rusher crack the 500-yard mark. The decision to part ways with Josh Jacobs loomed large over their struggles. But Carroll, known for his strategic acumen and emphasis on a balanced offense, recognizes the need to rejuvenate this aspect of their play.
Enter Aaron Jones—a potential target to turn the tide. Fresh off a 1,138-yard season with the Vikings, Jones brings a blend of speed, agility, and experience crucial for the Raiders’ backfield revival. At 30, Jones still wields the ability to break off explosive runs and contribute in the passing game, fitting well into Carroll’s vision. While Jones might not shoulder 20-25 carries per game consistently, his presence offers the team a trusted veteran hand and sets the stage to incorporate youthful dynamism through free agency or the draft.
This strategic push doesn’t just aim to solve an immediate problem. It serves as a crucial building block for a Raiders team eager to regain its competitive edge and make some noise in the league under the new leadership of Carroll and Brady.
