Pete Carroll Eyes a Return to the NFL: Could the Chicago Bears Be His Next Destination?
In the world of professional football, few names resonate with the same level of respect and admiration as Pete Carroll. Known for his infectious energy and unparalleled coaching acumen, Carroll has left an indelible mark on both college and professional football. Now, as the NFL coaching carousel begins to spin once more, Carroll’s name is back in the mix, and this time, it’s linked with the Chicago Bears.
According to league sources, Carroll, the Super Bowl-winning coach of the Seattle Seahawks, has expressed interest in the Bears’ head coaching position. This revelation comes as the Bears are actively searching for a new leader to steer their ship after parting ways with Matt Eberflus on November 29. Eberflus’s departure followed a narrow 23-20 loss to the Detroit Lions, a game marred by clock mismanagement that dashed the Bears’ comeback hopes.
Carroll’s coaching pedigree is nothing short of impressive. He is one of only four head coaches to have led teams to both a national championship and a Super Bowl victory. The others in this elite group are Barry Switzer, Jimmy Johnson, and Jim Harbaugh. Carroll’s tenure with the Seahawks was marked by 10 playoff appearances, two conference championships, and the franchise’s only Super Bowl win over a remarkable 14-season run.
Last January, the Seahawks announced Carroll’s departure as head coach, with owner Jody Allen stating that Carroll would remain with the team as an advisor. Subsequently, the Seahawks hired former Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald as their new head coach. Despite stepping away from the sidelines, Carroll’s passion for the game has not waned, and he is now contemplating a return to coaching.
While Carroll has not yet engaged in formal discussions with any teams, sources indicate that he is open to the possibility. At 73, Carroll’s age might raise eyebrows, but those who know him can attest to his boundless energy and enthusiasm. In an interview with 93.9 KJR last August, Carroll stated, “I get asked a lot, so I’m pretty familiar with answering that I could coach tomorrow. I’m physically in the best shape I’ve been in a long time. I’m ready to be ready to do all the activities that I’m doing and feeling really good about it. I could, but I’m not desiring it at this point.”
However, Carroll’s stance has shifted since then, and he is now eager to embrace the challenges of coaching once more. The prospect of working with former USC quarterback Caleb Williams in Chicago is particularly appealing to him, according to sources.
The Bears are set to host Carroll’s former Seahawks team on Thursday night in Chicago, adding an intriguing layer to the ongoing coaching saga. As the Bears evaluate their options, Carroll’s proven track record of building winning cultures could make him an ideal candidate to lead the team into a new era.
Interestingly, Carroll is not the only legendary coach contemplating a return to the game. Recently, Bill Belichick accepted the head coaching job at North Carolina, signaling a potential trend of seasoned coaches re-entering the fray.
- Pete Carroll is interested in the Chicago Bears’ head coaching job.
- Carroll is one of four coaches to win both a national championship and a Super Bowl.
- The Bears are seeking a new head coach after firing Matt Eberflus.
- Carroll has not yet spoken with any teams but is open to the opportunity.
- Carroll’s energy and experience make him a strong candidate for the Bears.
As the NFL offseason approaches, all eyes will be on Carroll and the Bears to see if this potential partnership comes to fruition. For now, fans and analysts alike can only speculate on what the future holds for one of football’s most charismatic and successful coaches.
Originally Written by: Adam Schefter
