The Las Vegas Raiders are entering a pivotal phase following the recent ousting of head coach Antonio Pierce after a challenging 4-13 campaign. Owner Mark Davis seemed to recognize the uphill battle Pierce faced, particularly at the quarterback position. With quarterbacks like Desmond Ritter, Aidan O’Connell, and Gardner Minshew II—names not often associated with franchise stability—it’s evident that the lack of a solid starter hindered the team’s progression and success.
In taking the reins, the Raiders have made an intriguing choice in hiring Pete Carroll, a figure synonymous with culture-building and defensive prowess. Carroll’s track record spans from his rebuilding efforts at USC to establishing a powerhouse with the Seattle Seahawks, famously known for their “Legion of Boom.” His keen eye for talent, particularly in defensive backs and safeties like Earl Thomas, has enabled him to craft formidable defenses capable of dominating the opposition.
Now, as Carroll gears up for battles in the AFC West, the competition is fierce. With first-ballot Hall of Famer Patrick Mahomes leading the Kansas City Chiefs, alongside rising star Justin Herbert and rookie Bo Nix of the Denver Broncos, the landscape demands an elite defense. Carroll’s specialty in constructing a robust backend is essential; however, an effective defense starts with a ferocious pass rush.
This brings us to Myles Garrett, a defensive powerhouse who would be a game-changer for the Raiders. The prospect of pairing Garrett with Maxx Crosby creates a formidable duo capable of applying relentless pressure on opposing quarterbacks. This synergy could alleviate some pressure from the secondary, allowing them to perform without the burden of extended coverage.
With Garrett locked into a two-year contract, there’s flexibility to not just secure a valuable asset, but also to consider the quarterback situation. Acquiring a seasoned veteran like Aaron Rodgers or Kirk Cousins would provide immediate impact, while also paving the way for nurturing a future star like Shedeur Sanders through the draft.
Under Carroll’s guidance, the alignment of Garrett and Crosby could herald a new era for the Raiders, lifting them out of the basement of the AFC West and reigniting their playoff aspirations. If this plan comes to fruition, it could be a transformative move for a franchise eager to reclaim its glory.
