In a stunning repeat of history, Pete Carroll has once again declined the opportunity to become the head coach of the Oakland Raiders, this time turning down a staggering $87.2 million contract offer that would have made him one of the highest-paid coaches in NFL history.Sources close to the negotiations confirm that Carroll, the legendary former head coach of the Seattle Seahawks and a Super Bowl champion, met with Raiders owner Mark Davis earlier this month. The team reportedly pitched a lucrative 6-year deal to lure the veteran coach back to the NFL sidelines, hoping his championship pedigree and magnetic leadership could reinvigorate a struggling franchise.
But for the second time in less than a decade, Carroll said no.
History Repeats Itself
Carroll first turned down the Raiders back in the early 2020s, when the team was again in turmoil and searching for direction. At the time, he cited a desire to stay focused on his role in Seattle and the importance of loyalty to the organization and its fan base.
This time around, the reasons appear to be more personal.
“Pete is in a different chapter of life now,” said one source familiar with the talks. “He’s not chasing money or titles. He wants the right fit — philosophically, culturally, and personally. Unfortunately, the Raiders just don’t check those boxes for him.”
Raiders Left Searching — Again
For the Raiders, Carroll’s rejection is yet another setback in a tumultuous coaching search following the departure of interim coach Antonio Pierce, who had won over fans but ultimately didn’t get the permanent job. With a talented but inconsistent roster and a rabid fanbase hungry for success, the pressure is mounting.
The $87.2 million deal on the table reportedly included incentives, full control over football operations, and a promise to invest in new training facilities — a clear indication the Raiders were ready to go all-in.
Now, with Carroll out of the picture, the team must pivot quickly as other coaching vacancies around the league begin to fill up.
What’s Next for Carroll?
While Carroll, 73, hasn’t ruled out a return to coaching entirely, many believe he’s more likely to focus on broadcasting, mentoring younger coaches, or pursuing projects off the field.
In the meantime, Raider Nation is left with one more “what if” in a long list of near-misses and coaching carousel missteps.