The Seattle Seahawks, a team synonymous with resilience and grit under Pete Carroll, have navigated a transformative period over the last nine seasons, relentlessly pursuing a return to the NFL’s pinnacle since their Super Bowl XLVIII victory and subsequent near-repeat. Blockbuster trades, high-profile free agent acquisitions, and multiple coordinator changes on both offense and defense marked their journey. They even made the monumental decision to move on from franchise quarterback Russell Wilson.
However, the most seismic shift occurred on Wednesday when the Seahawks announced the departure of Pete Carroll as head coach after an unprecedented 14-season tenure – the most successful in franchise history. This move raises critical questions about the Seahawks’ direction and the future for Carroll himself.
The Timeline of the Pete Carroll and Seahawks Separation: Why Now?
The question on everyone’s mind: Did Pete Carroll Get Fired? While officially termed a departure, Carroll’s own words suggest a decision driven by ownership. In his press conference following the announcement, Carroll stated, “I competed pretty hard to be the coach … I went along with their intentions.” This starkly contrasts with his statements just days prior, where he affirmed his plans to continue coaching the Seahawks. This divergence indicates that the decision originated with Seahawks owner Jody Allen, not Carroll himself.
Allen’s public statement offered a general rationale, citing the move as being “in the best interest of the organization.” The underlying context, however, points to a performance plateau. Since their Super Bowl triumph in 2013 and near-miss the following year, the Seahawks have reached the playoffs six times but consistently stalled in the divisional round. Despite Carroll’s optimistic assessment on his radio show earlier in the week – claiming the Seahawks were closer to Super Bowl contention than the previous 9-8 season – tangible evidence of this trajectory was lacking. The team’s defense deteriorated, and the offense often underperformed. Their record over the past three seasons stands at 25-27, punctuated by a wild-card loss in their sole playoff appearance during that period.
Pete Carroll’s Next Chapter: Advisor or Another Sideline?
The immediate aftermath of this decision brings forth the question of what’s next for Pete Carroll? Jody Allen’s statement mentioned Carroll transitioning into an advisor role within the organization. However, Carroll himself acknowledged that the specifics of this position remain undefined. This ambiguity, coupled with Carroll’s expressed desire to remain head coach, casts doubt on the true nature of the advisor role. It fuels speculation that the Seahawks might be offering this title as a respectful exit strategy for a coaching legend.
At 72, Carroll has displayed undiminished energy and passion for coaching. His spirited press conference, where he declared himself “freakin’ jacked” and far from weary, hinted at a coach not ready to step away from the game. This naturally leads to the question of whether Carroll would consider coaching opportunities with other NFL teams if a suitable offer emerged. “We’ll have to wait and see,” Carroll responded when directly asked about this possibility, adding, “Today’s about today. I don’t know that.”
One aspect of Carroll’s advisor role was clarified: he will not be involved in the search for his successor, relinquishing personnel decisions to General Manager John Schneider. Schneider, initially hired with Carroll’s input in 2010, now assumes full control of Seattle’s front office.
Potential Candidates for Seahawks Head Coach: Who Will Replace Carroll?
The Seahawks’ search for a new head coach is underway, and early reports suggest potential frontrunners. ESPN’s Adam Schefter identified Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn as a likely candidate. Quinn has been linked to the Seahawks in previous coaching speculation, particularly as questions surrounding Carroll’s long-term future arose. His prior history with the Seahawks, including two stints as defensive line coach (2009-10) and defensive coordinator (2013-14), strengthens his candidacy. Quinn orchestrated the Seahawks’ dominant defense during their Super Bowl years.
The decline of Seattle’s defense since Quinn’s departure is a significant factor in the current coaching change. In 2023, the Seahawks ranked a dismal 25th in points allowed and 30th in yards allowed, highlighting the urgent need for defensive revitalization.
Immediate Challenges for the New Seahawks Coach: Staff and Strategy
The incoming head coach will face immediate personnel decisions, primarily regarding the current coordinators. The futures of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt are uncertain, given the team’s inconsistent performance on both sides of the ball.
Defense was a key area of concern, particularly run defense. Despite efforts to improve after ranking 30th against the run in 2022 (150.2 rushing yards allowed per game), the Seahawks regressed further, falling to 31st (138.4). The offense, while showing flashes, ranked mid-tier in scoring (18th, 20.2 PPG) and yards (21st, 322.9 per game), and continued to struggle on third downs – a persistent issue for the Seahawks.
New head coaches typically prefer to appoint their own coaching staff, making Waldron and Hurtt’s positions precarious. Their recent performance records further diminish their chances of remaining with the team.
Geno Smith in action.
Geno Smith’s Future and the Seahawks’ Roster Landscape
The quarterback position is another critical area for the new coach and front office to address. Geno Smith, while showing promise, experienced a somewhat inconsistent 2023 season, statistically declining from his Pro Bowl year in 2022. However, external factors, including offensive line instability and injuries, contributed to his performance. He finished the season with a QBR of 60, ranking 13th in the league.
Smith’s contract includes a $12.7 million base salary guarantee if he remains on the roster past February 16th. This date becomes a de facto deadline for Schneider and the new coach to evaluate Smith’s future with the team. Backup quarterback Drew Lock is set to become a free agent, and the Seahawks hold the 16th overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft, providing options for quarterback development or acquisition.
Adding to the roster questions is the free agency of linebacker Bobby Wagner. Wagner, a franchise legend, returned to the Seahawks last offseason at Carroll’s urging. Carroll’s departure casts doubt on Wagner’s potential return in 2024.
In conclusion, Pete Carroll’s departure marks the end of an era for the Seattle Seahawks. The organization faces significant decisions regarding coaching, personnel, and the overall direction of the team as they move forward into a new chapter. The question wasn’t just did Pete Carroll get fired, but what happens now? The NFL world watches to see how the Seahawks navigate this pivotal transition.
