Pete Carroll’s Commitment to Winning Now
Pete Carroll, the 73-year-old head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, made it clear that he did not return to the NFL for a rebuilding project. His decision to part ways with quarterback Geno Smith and trade him to the Las Vegas Raiders was a strategic move that reflects his focus on winning now. Carroll, one of the oldest coaches in the league, has consistently shown a desire to compete at the highest level, and his actions this offseason underscore that philosophy. By trading Smith, Carroll is paving the way for a new chapter in Seattle, one that may involve younger talent and a fresh approach, but his commitment to immediate success remains unwavering.
The Raiders’ Latest Move: Acquiring Geno Smith
The Las Vegas Raiders wasted no time in addressing their quarterback needs after failing to land Matthew Stafford. They acquired Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a third-round pick, bringing stability and veteran leadership to their offense. Smith, who had a breakout season in 2022 under Carroll, completed 70% of his passes for 4,292 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection and led the Seahawks to the playoffs, surprising many NFL observers. With $81 million in salary cap space, the Raiders are well-positioned to build around Smith, who is expected to serve as a bridge quarterback while the team develops a younger prospect.
The Seahawks’ Roster Reset and Future Plans
The Seattle Seahawks are undergoing a significant roster overhaul, particularly on offense. In addition to trading Geno Smith, they released veteran receiver Tyler Lockett and are dealing with a contract impasse with their No. 1 receiver, DK Metcalf, who has requested a trade. These moves suggest a reset in Seattle, but it doesn’t necessarily mean a full rebuild. The Seahawks have already taken steps to shore up their quarterback position by hiring offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, whose scheme is similar to that of Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell. The team is reportedly targeting Sam Darnold, a 27-year-old quarterback who had his best season in 2024 with the Vikings, throwing for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. Darnold is expected to sign a multi-year deal with Seattle, potentially becoming the team’s new starting quarterback.
Sam Darnold: The Seahawks’ Next Hope at Quarterback
Sam Darnold, who is entering his prime, could be the key to revitalizing the Seahawks’ offense. His performance in 2024 was a standout, leading the Vikings to a 14-3 record and showcasing his ability to thrive in a system that emphasizes quick decisions and balance. Darnold’s familiarity with Klint Kubiak’s scheme, which focuses on getting the ball out quickly and using play-action passes to complement the running game, makes him an ideal fit for Seattle. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald emphasized the importance of a decisive quarterback who can play fast and build confidence within the offense. Darnold’s ability to do just that could be a game-changer for a team looking to remain competitive despite its roster turnover.
Building a Balanced Offense in Seattle
The Seahawks’ new offensive philosophy under Klint Kubiak and head coach Mike Macdonald is centered around balance and efficiency. Macdonald, who previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, wants to create an offense that complements the defense by leaning on the running game. This approach not only takes pressure off the quarterback but also helps protect the offensive line. By building an offense that plays decisively and gets the ball out quickly, the Seahawks aim to create a rhythm that is difficult for defenses to disrupt. This scheme has proven successful in the past, particularly in Baltimore, and Seattle hopes to replicate that success with Darnold at the helm.
What’s Next for the Seahawks and Raiders?
The Seahawks and Raiders are taking different paths this offseason, but both teams share a common goal: winning. For Seattle, the trade of Geno Smith and the potential signing of Sam Darnold signal a shift toward a younger, more dynamic roster, but the team’s commitment to competing immediately remains intact. The Raiders, meanwhile, are banking on Smith’s veteran leadership to stabilize their quarterback position while they develop a long-term solution. Both teams face challenges, but their proactive approach to addressing their needs positions them for success in the competitive NFL landscape. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on how these moves impact each team’s trajectory in 2025 and beyond.
