After parting ways with head coach Antonio Pierce on January 7, the Las Vegas Raiders were initially on the hunt for a youthful and innovative offensive-minded coach, targeting Ben Johnson. However, Johnson ultimately accepted an offer from the Chicago Bears. In a surprising turn of events, the Raiders have now hired Pete Carroll, who will make history as the oldest head coach in NFL history when he steps onto the field for his first game in September. With an extensive coaching career and a CEO-style leadership approach, Carroll is expected to steer the Raiders in a new direction.

Carroll is renowned for his successful tenure with the Seattle Seahawks, leading them to victory in Super Bowl XLVIII and enjoying a remarkable 14-year run as their head coach. With the Raiders hoping to replicate that success, the partnership between Carroll and general manager John Spytek, a two-time Super Bowl champion in his own right, could be the key to revitalizing the franchise.

As he embarks on this new chapter, Carroll’s immediate priority is assembling a formidable coaching staff. Given his age and the fact that he does not call plays, it is of utmost importance that he selects the right offensive and defensive coordinators. The Raiders are also obliged to uphold the Rooney Rule, necessitating candidate interviews from diverse backgrounds for their OC and DC positions, as well as the quarterbacks coach.

Offensive Coordinator Candidates

Starting with the most probable connections, Darrell Bevell emerges as a leading candidate for the offensive coordinator role. Having served as the Seahawks' offensive coordinator from 2011 to 2017, Bevell played a pivotal role in the team's Super Bowl victory. He has held the OC position across four different teams, most recently with the Miami Dolphins, where he has made notable contributions to the team's offense under quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.

Alternatively, Carroll could consider Shane Waldron, the former Seahawks’ OC who was recently let go after a short stint with the Bears. There are also family ties to contemplate, with Carroll's son, Brennan, who recently became the offensive coordinator at the University of Washington and previously worked under Carroll in Seattle. Another option could be his younger son, Nate, who is currently the passing-game coordinator for the Carolina Panthers—both are potential candidates for the OC or quarterbacks coach roles.

Additionally, with Spytek’s connections to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and minority owner Tom Brady, former Bucs OC Byron Leftwich could make a compelling case for the position, given his experience in leading a Super Bowl-winning offense alongside Brady. Thad Lewis, the Buccaneers’ quarterbacks coach, might also get consideration, especially if the Bucs decide to promote someone else.

The Raiders may also explore first-time OC candidates who could bring fresh ideas to the table. Ronald Curry, the Buffalo Bills quarterbacks coach and former Raiders wide receiver, alongside Nick Caley, the Los Angeles Rams’ tight ends coach, both stand out as potential sources of untapped talent. Lastly, Josh McCown, the Vikings’ quarterbacks coach and another former Raiders player, is also generating significant buzz as an emerging candidate.

Defensive Coordinator Prospects

On the defensive side, Gus Bradley, who previously worked under Carroll with the Seahawks and had a tenure as the Raiders' DC in 2021, is a known entity but may face scrutiny concerning the recent performance of his defenses. Kris Richard, another former Seahawk and assistant coach, could be a viable option, given his previous connections and experience.

Nick Sorensen, recently released from his role as the San Francisco 49ers’ DC, also has a background with the Seahawks and would likely resonate with Carroll's coaching philosophy. Meanwhile, Karl Scott, currently the Seahawks' defensive backs coach, could be a wildcard choice as a defensive coordinator, having worked under Carroll for two seasons.

For a broader array of candidates, Don “Wink” Martindale, with a wealth of NFL DC experience, and Patrick Graham, the recently departed Raiders' DC who helped improve the defense's performance during his tenure, could draw consideration. If Graham opts for new challenges, Rob Leonard, the defensive line coach with deep ties to the players and proven results, may also be in the running.

In conclusion, as Pete Carroll embarks on this new venture with the Raiders, the anticipation builds around the imminent selection of his coaching staff. The dynamic range of candidates—from familiar faces and family ties to fresh talent—offers hope that the Raiders can turn the page and regain their status in the NFL elite. Will Carroll make the right choices? Only time will tell!