The Las Vegas Raiders are facing a very important offseason. The choices they make now can change the team for many years. Head coach Pete Carroll is the main focus. The 74-year-old coach was hired to bring stability, but the 2025 season has gone very badly. Because of this, many people believe his job is now in danger.
A Season of Unprecedented Struggles
This season has been extremely difficult for the Raiders. The team has lost 14 games, which matches one of the worst records in team history. They are also on a 10-game losing streak. This is the second year in a row that has happened. The Raiders now have a 2-14 record and sit last in the NFL. They will get the No. 1 overall pick in the next NFL Draft.
Having the top draft pick can help a rebuilding team. But it also shows how badly the team has performed. Under Pete Carroll, the Raiders’ offense has become the worst in the league. They score only 14.2 points per game, which is very low.
Why Experts Call the Tenure “Confounding”
Many experts have strongly criticized Carroll’s time with the Raiders. FOX Sports writer Ralph Vacchiano called it “miserable, dysfunctional, and confounding.” The biggest issue is that Carroll wants to win right now, but the team clearly needs a full rebuild.
Even though Carroll brings energy and experience, it has not led to wins. He is the oldest head coach in NFL history. The team fired offensive coordinator Chip Kelly during the season, which caused more confusion. Veteran quarterback Geno Smith also struggled badly. This has made many people question whether Carroll’s coaching style still works in today’s NFL.
The Silver Lining: A Franchise-Altering Draft Pick
There is one positive outcome from this terrible season. Because the Raiders performed so poorly, they now have the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. This gives them a chance to select a very special player.
The team could draft a future franchise quarterback or a star defensive player. This pick could change the future of the Raiders. Some analysts believe that even if Carroll is fired, his one season helped set up the team for long-term success. The big question is whether Carroll should stay to guide a rookie quarterback or if the team needs a fresh start.
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Pete Carroll’s Response to the Backlash
After a 34-10 loss to the New York Giants, Carroll spoke openly about the situation. He said injuries were a major reason for the team’s collapse. Several key defensive players were hurt, and the starting quarterback was also lost.
Carroll said the team tried hard every week. He said the players gave their best effort, but it was not enough. He continues to focus on effort and team culture. However, in the NFL, effort alone does not protect a coach when the team keeps losing.
The Looming Decision for Ownership
As the Raiders get ready to play their final game against the Kansas City Chiefs, big decisions are coming. Owner Mark Davis and part-owner Tom Brady must choose what to do next.
They can keep Pete Carroll and give him another year to fix the team. Or they can fire him and look for a new coach during “Black Monday.” Fans in Las Vegas are unhappy, and expectations are high. The decision made this January could shape the Raiders’ future for the next ten years.
Disclaimer
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