Former NFL coach Pete Carroll is eyeing a return to coaching after taking a season off, according to ESPN’s report on Wednesday. The 73-year-old coach, who enjoyed success with the Seattle Seahawks, is reportedly interested in the head coach opening with the Chicago Bears.
Carroll made a significant impact during his tenure with the Seahawks, leading the team to consecutive Super Bowl appearances in 2013 and 2014, ultimately winning the championship in the first attempt. However, his 14-season stint in Seattle came to an end when he was relieved of his duties in January after two consecutive 9-8 seasons.
The Bears recently parted ways with head coach Matt Eberflus, who was appointed in 2022, following a disappointing 4-8 start to the season and a lackluster overall record of 14-32. The team’s decision to make a coaching change aligns with the trend seen across the league, with the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints also opting to part ways with their head coaches in the current season.
Carroll’s interest in the Bears’ coaching position is driven by the prospect of collaborating with quarterback Caleb Williams, projected as the top overall draft pick for 2024. His coaching experience spans various successful stints with teams such as the New York Jets (1994), New England Patriots (1997-99), and the Seahawks, amassing a commendable record of 170-120-1.
Despite the speculation surrounding Carroll’s potential return to coaching, ESPN noted that the seasoned coach has yet to engage in discussions with the Bears or any other team regarding a coaching position. Throughout his illustrious career, Carroll has demonstrated his coaching prowess not only in the NFL but also during his tenure at the University of Southern California from 2001 to 2009.
During his time at USC, Carroll guided the team to nine bowl games and clinched national championships in 2003 and 2004, further solidifying his reputation as a successful coach at both the collegiate and professional levels. Notably, Carroll stands alongside esteemed coaches such as Jim Harbaugh, Jimmy Johnson, and Barry Switzer as one of the select few to have led teams to both the NCAA title game and the Super Bowl.
As the coaching landscape continues to evolve with new opportunities and challenges, Carroll’s potential return to the NFL with the Chicago Bears presents an intriguing storyline for football enthusiasts eagerly awaiting his next move.
