Seahawks make stunning announcement about Pete Carroll
Dec 21, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll reacts against the Los Angeles Rams in the second half at SoFi Stadium. The Rams defeated the Seahawks 20-10. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Pete Carroll’s outstanding run as head coach of the Seattle Seahawks has come to an end.
The Seahawks announced on Wednesday that Carroll will not return as head coach in 2024. He will, however, remain with the organization in an advisory role.
Statement from Jody Allen – Chair, Seattle Seahawks pic.twitter.com/RNUZvF6Vgp
— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) January 10, 2024
Carroll, 72, is the winningest coach in Seahawks franchise history. He finishes with a regular-season record of 137-89-1 and playoff record of 9-8 in 14 seasons. Carroll led the Seahawks to a Super Bowl win in 2012 and another Super Bowl appearance in 2013.
A report over the weekend claimed the Seahawks were evaluating contingency plans to prepare for the possibility of Carroll retiring. Carroll then said on Seattle Sports radio Monday that his plan was to continue to coach next season.
Pete Carroll on @SeattleSports on if he plans to return next year
"I plan to be coaching this team. I told you I love these guys. That's what I would like to be doing and see how far we can go. I'm not tired. I'm not worn out. I need to do a better job and help my coaches more."
— Maura Dooley (@Maura_Dool) January 8, 2024
“I plan to be coaching this team. I told you I love these guys. That’s what I would like to be doing and see how far we can go,” Carroll said. “I’m not tired. I’m not worn out. I need to do a better job and help my coaches more.”
Either Carroll had a sudden change of heart, or the Seahawks essentially pushed him out. The latter seems more likely.
Carroll was the oldest active coach in the NFL. That honor now belongs to 71-year-old Bill Belichick, who is facing a very uncertain future with his own team.