A New Chapter for the Raiders: Coaching Staff Announced
On Tuesday, the Raiders unveiled their full coaching staff for the 2025 season, signaling a fresh start and a renewed commitment to excellence. The roster of experienced and diverse talent is led by head coach Pete Carroll, who brings a wealth of NFL experience and a proven track record of success. The announcement also marks a unique moment in NFL history, as both of Carroll’s sons, Brennan and Nate, have joined the staff, adding a family touch to the team’s management. The coaching staff is designed to address various aspects of the game, from offense to defense, and special teams, ensuring a well-rounded approach to the upcoming season.
Pete Carroll: A Legendary Leader Returns
Pete Carroll’s return to the head coaching role for the Raiders is more than just a strategic hire; it’s a reunion of a coaching legend with a franchise eager to reclaim its glory. Carroll, known for his innovative coaching style and emphasis on team culture, has a distinguished career that includes two Super Bowl victories with the Seattle Seahawks and a prominent stint with the USC Trojans. As head coach, Carroll will oversee all aspects of the team, from strategic planning to game-day execution, while also fostering a positive and competitive environment that encourages growth and development among players and coaches alike.
A Robust Offensive Strategy
The offensive side of the ball will be led by Chip Kelly, the team’s offensive coordinator. Kelly, a former head coach with the Philadelphia Eagles and University of Oregon, is renowned for his dynamic and fast-paced offensive schemes. He will work closely with wide receivers coach Chris Beatty and senior offensive assistant Bob Bicknell to develop a high-flying attack that can dominate both the air and ground. Brennan Carroll, Pete’s son, will take on the role of run game coordinator and offensive line coach, bringing a fresh perspective and a deep understanding of his father’s philosophy. Nate Carroll will assist the quarterbacks, working under Greg Olson, the quarterbacks coach, to refine the skills and decision-making of the team’s signal-callers. Joe Philbin, another seasoned veteran, will serve as a senior offensive assistant, lending his expertise in offensive line play and game planning. The offensive staff is rounded out by Andy Dickerson, assistant offensive line coach, Deland McCullough, running backs coach, and Luke Steckel, tight ends coach, each adding their unique strengths and experiences to the team.
Coaching the Defense: A Blend of Experience and Fresh Ideas
Defensively, the Raiders will be guided by Patrick Graham, the defensive coordinator. Graham, who has previously held leadership roles with the New York Giants and Miami Dolphins, brings a defensive mindset that values aggressiveness and adaptability. John Glenn, the linebackers coach, and Rob Leonard, the assistant defensive line coach and run game coordinator, will work together to fortify the defensive line and linebacker corps. Kenyon Jackson, assistant defensive line coach, Ty McKenzie, defensive assistant/linebackers, and Beyah Rasool, defense quality control, will support Graham and Glenn in creating a robust and versatile defensive front. Marcus Robertson, the defensive backs coach, and defensive assistant Rip Rowan will focus on developing a secondary that can handle the challenges of the modern NFL. Joe Woods, the pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach, will play a crucial role in coordinating the overall defensive strategy and ensuring that the team is well-prepared to stop both the run and the pass.
Special Teams: The Unsung Heroes
Special teams play a critical role in any NFL game, and the Raiders have entrusted this crucial area to Tom McMahon, the special teams coordinator. McMahon, a veteran of the NFL, has a wealth of experience in coaching special teams and will be responsible for coordinating all aspects of kicking, punting, and returning. Kade Rannings, the quality control specialist for special teams, and Derius Swinton II, the special teams assistant, will work alongside McMahon to ensure that the Raiders have a reliable and effective special teams unit. Their focus will be on executing fundamental plays with precision and creating opportunities through strategic and dynamic plays.
Family Affair: The Carroll Sons
The inclusion of both Brennan and Nate Carroll on the coaching staff adds a unique dimension to the team’s dynamics. Brennan Carroll, the run game coordinator and offensive line coach, has a strong background in both college and professional football, having previously worked with his father at USC and in the NFL. His role will be crucial in developing a powerful and cohesive running game, which is a cornerstone of Pete Carroll’s offensive philosophy. Nate Carroll, the assistant quarterbacks coach, brings a different set of skills to the table. With experience in training and developing young quarterbacks, Nate will work closely with Greg Olson to ensure that the Raiders’ quarterbacks are well-prepared and capable of making smart decisions on the field. The presence of the Carroll sons not only strengthens the coaching staff but also underscores the family-oriented culture Pete Carroll aims to foster within the organization.
Looking Ahead: The Promise of a Strong 2025 Season
The Raiders’ 2025 coaching staff is a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh talents, all aligned under the visionary leadership of Pete Carroll. Each coach brings a unique set of skills and experiences that will contribute to the team’s overall success. From the dynamic offense led by Chip Kelly and the solid defense under Patrick Graham, to the reliable special teams under Tom McMahon, the Raiders are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. The family connection with the Carroll sons adds an extra layer of cohesion and commitment, setting the stage for a promising and exciting year. As the team begins its preparations, the league and fans alike will be watching closely to see how this new roster of coaches shapes the future of the Raiders.
