Pete Carroll has been appointed as the new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, becoming the oldest head coach in NFL history at the age of 73.
The veteran coach has agreed to take charge of the Raiders on a three-year contract, with an option to extend for a further year.
Carroll, who will turn 74 in September, joins the Raiders following a successful 14-season spell with the Seattle Seahawks, where he amassed an impressive 137-89 record.
The appointment marks a significant milestone in NFL history, as Carroll is set to surpass the age record previously held by Romeo Crennel, who was 73 during his time with the Houston Texans in 2020.
Tom Brady missed out on a chance to reunite with Bill Belichick
GETTY
Carroll’s appointment comes after the Raiders initially targeted former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who opted to join the Chicago Bears instead.
The decorated coach brings an impressive pedigree to Las Vegas, having previously managed the New York Jets and New England Patriots before his tenure in Seattle.
His arrival coincides with Tom Brady’s involvement as Raiders minority owner, who played a role in securing Carroll’s services despite interest from the Dallas Cowboys.
There had been some talk about Bill Belichick potentially reuniting with Brady at the Raiders.
Belichick signed a five-year deal with the University of North Carolina earlier this week, but it’s reported to have included a buyout clause should an NFL side look to hire him.
But the Raiders seemingly have no interest in bringing in Belichick with their commitment to Carroll.
Carroll belongs to an elite group of coaches who have achieved success at both NFL and college level.
GETTY
His crowning achievement came in 2013 when he led the Seattle Seahawks to Super Bowl victory.
Prior to his NFL success, Carroll established himself as a dominant force in college football, securing back-to-back national championships with USC in 2003 and 2004.
His departure from the Seahawks following the 2023 season marked the end of an era that saw him transform the franchise into a consistent contender.
Carroll faces significant challenges in his new role, with the Raiders having missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.
The team’s recent record of 18-33 led to the dismissals of both Josh McDaniels and Antonio Pierce.
Las Vegas has managed just one winning season since 2017, with quarterback issues being a particular concern.
The Raiders’ struggles were evident in 2024, with Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell sharing quarterback duties without either cementing their position.
Following a 4-13 finish, the Raiders hold the No. 6 overall pick in April’s NFL Draft, though top quarterback prospects Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders may be unavailable when their selection comes.
LATEST SPORT NEWS:
Tom Brady has to be careful what he says on commentary due to the fact he is an NFL ownerReuters
Carroll’s appointment marks the fifth head coaching hire of this cycle, following a series of appointments across the NFL.
The Raiders turned to Carroll after their initial target, Ben Johnson, chose to take the vacant position at the Chicago Bears.
Working alongside new general manager John Spytek, Carroll will need to address the team’s roster gaps, particularly at quarterback.
The Raiders’ decision to appoint Carroll leaves only the Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints yet to name their new head coaches for the upcoming season.