On Wednesday afternoon, another head coaching hammer dropped when the Seattle Seahawks shockingly fired long-time coach Pete Carroll after 14 seasons with the franchise.
The Seattle Seahawks were one of the big surprises in the NFL in 2022 as journeyman quarterback Geno Smith had a career resurgence and the team was able to reach the playoffs with a 9-8 record. This season, the team had the same record but far different results as they were left out of the postseason this year.
After a pair of 9-8 finishes that followed a 7-10 season in 2021, it seems that the Seattle Seahawks ownership felt it was time for a culture change. Following recent rumblings that Pete Carroll’s long-held job with the franchise was on shaky ground, the organization pulled the trigger and fired the 72-year-old on Wednesday.
“After thoughtful meetings and careful consideration for the best interest of the franchise, we have amicably agreed with Pete Carroll that his role will evolve from head coach to remain with the organization as an advisor.
“Pete is the winningest coach in Seahawks history, brought the city its first Super Bowl title, and created a tremendous impact over the last 14 years on the field and in the community. His expertise in leadership and building a championship culture will continue as an integral part of our organization moving forward.”
– Statement from Seattle Seahawks
Pete Carroll’s Seattle Seahawks legacy
Pete Carroll will go down as the greatest head coach in Seattle Seahawks history. After taking over the job in 2010, he finished with a 227-157 record overseeing the team. In eight of his 14 seasons, the team won double-digit games and four NFL West division titles.
The former USC Trojans and New England Patriots head coach took the franchise to consecutive trips to the Super Bowl in the 2013 and 2014 seasons and helped them win their first NFL title with a Super Bowl XLVIII win over the Denver Broncos.
Related: Philadelphia Eagles A.J. Brown gets physical with Seattle Seahawks staff member
However, an apparent falling out in his relationship with team great Russell Wilson three years ago might have begun the end of his tenure with the franchise. His ability to have a strong team with Geno Smith as QB likely averted being fired last season but the team missing the playoffs this year was clearly enough for those in the front office who wanted a chance in the Seattle culture starting in 2024.