The Las Vegas Raiders are coming off a challenging 4-13 season, and with that record, changes were bound to happen. The team recently parted ways with Antonio Pierce, who had tried to instill a tough, defensive mindset in the squad during his tenure as a former NFL linebacker for the New York Giants. What’s clear, however, is that the Raiders have a glaring need for experience at the helm, and that’s where Pete Carroll comes into the picture.
A Turnaround with Pete Carroll?
There’s a buzz around the prospect of Pete Carroll taking over as head coach. Carroll is currently serving as the senior advisor for the Seattle Seahawks, having taken a break from his coaching duties in 2024. It’s no secret that Carroll brings a wealth of experience, as Adam Schefter reports that the Raiders are set to interview him next week. With a resume that includes a Super Bowl victory in 2013 and significant success in college football, including four Rose Bowls and the 2004 national championship, Carroll could be just what the Raiders need to chart a new course.
Projecting the 2025 Season
The quarterback position was a major headache for the Raiders last season. Although the 2025 NFL Draft doesn’t present a clear solution at QB, there are other avenues to explore. One intriguing possibility is Justin Fields, a quarterback with untapped potential. Carroll’s track record with Russell Wilson is well-documented, and his expertise could be just what Fields needs to reach his full potential.
Looking towards the draft, the first pick of the Pete Carroll era could be Abdul Carter. If the Jacksonville Jaguars opt for Mason Graham or Will Johnson, selecting Carter would be a strategic move. Pairing him with Maxx Crosby could instantly upgrade the Raiders’ defense, harking back to Carroll’s success with the Legion of Boom in Seattle. Drafting a defensive player with the 6th overall pick seems to align perfectly with his coaching philosophy.
While these potential moves won’t instantly transform the Raiders into Super Bowl contenders, they could certainly make a marked difference. With Carroll at the helm, an improvement to an 8-9 or 9-8 season is plausible. More importantly, this would bring renewed hope to a franchise and fan base eager for a resurgence. Carroll’s experience and strategic insights might just be the catalyst the Raiders need to become competitive once again.
