After a challenging season, Pete Carroll remains uncertain about his future with the Raiders following a disappointing loss to the New York Giants. The Raiders are set to conclude their season next weekend as they face the Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium.
This season has taken an unexpected turn for Carroll, who was brought in to improve a franchise that has struggled, achieving only two winning seasons in the past 23 years. Instead, the Raiders have found themselves at the bottom of the league with a record of 2-14, having lost ten consecutive games, including a 34-10 defeat to the Giants, who were previously tied with them for the worst record in the NFL.
When asked about his expectations for returning next season, Carroll stated, “I have no comment to make about that at all.” However, he expressed that his interactions with the Raiders” leadership have been positive, saying, “From all the guys I”ve talked to, I do feel I have their support.”
Despite his optimism about the organization”s backing, Carroll remains cautious about interpreting the conversations he has had with management. “What that means, I don”t know,” he admitted. “Our conversations have been really good.” He highlighted that the communication has been effective, noting, “We”re getting along great, we”re communicating really well.” He concluded, “We”ll see what happens.”
Reflecting on a season filled with challenges, Carroll acknowledged that he did not foresee such difficulties. He pointed out that the Raiders” winless preseason might have hinted at the struggles to come, stating, “We were fortunate to tie Seattle.” The team”s only victory this season came against the Patriots in New England, a win that now seems distant as the Patriots have since claimed the AFC East title and are heading to the playoffs.
“That was a pretty solid win for us,” Carroll recalled, but it came at a cost as star tight end Brock Bowers suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for several games. Following that victory, the Raiders lost four straight contests and have only managed to win two out of their last 16 games.
Carroll expressed his confusion regarding the rapid decline of the team”s performance. “I had no place in my mind to see this,” he stated. “You just try to figure out how to go, one week at a time, come on back and find the focus to work really hard and give it a really good shot to see if we can play good football.” He reaffirmed his commitment to the team, stating, “And that”s what we”re going to try to do again. And I don”t doubt these guys one bit.”
