Oct 11, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Former NFL coach Pete Carroll attends the game between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Portland Trail Blazers at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

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Pete Carroll: One of Four Coaches to Win Both a National Championship and Super Bowl

Pete Carroll considers Bears' HC role for NFL return.

Pete Carroll stands among an elite group of coaches who have achieved success at both college and NFL levels. Alongside Barry Switzer, Jimmy Johnson, and Jim Harbaugh, Carroll has led teams to a national championship and a Super Bowl victory. His career is a testament to his ability to build winning cultures across different stages of football.

Pete Carroll’s journey to success

Carroll’s coaching career spans 18 years in the NFL. He began with the New York Jets in 1994, spent three seasons with the New England Patriots, and solidified his legacy during 14 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks. With a record of 170-120-1, Carroll’s leadership was instrumental in shaping the Seahawks into perennial contenders.

Former Seahawks Super-Bowl winning HC Pete Carroll has expressed interest in the Bears HC job and would like to return to the sideline next season, league sources tell ESPN.

Carroll is one of four head coaches to have led teams to both a national championship and the Super… pic.twitter.com/qs6g4v1lTA
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 25, 2024

His greatest accomplishment came during the 2013 season. Carroll’s Seahawks, anchored by the Legion of Boom defense featuring Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, and Earl Thomas, dominated the Denver Broncos 43-8 in Super Bowl XLVIII. That same defense ranked No. 1 in the league, showcasing Carroll’s mastery in fostering elite units.

Before his NFL success, Carroll led the USC Trojans to national championships, demonstrating his ability to excel in college football. His tenure at USC remains one of the most dominant periods in college football history.

Current interest in the Bears’ head coaching role

Carroll, now 73, has expressed interest in returning to the sidelines. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Carroll is considering the Chicago Bears’ head coaching vacancy. While Carroll has yet to speak with any teams, his name aligns with the Bears’ vision for leadership.

If the Bears hire Pete Carroll, they’d need to hire an OC that’s a head coach in waiting given Carroll’s age. I know the perfect candidate: pic.twitter.com/d5pafjmSJv
— jamfan40 (@jamfan40) December 25, 2024

Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren outlined their criteria:

“We need an individual who has extremely high standards, who is tough, demanding, bright, and accountable. Someone who seeks championships and represents Chicago in a manner that is well-deserved.”

Chicago’s appeal lies partly in former USC quarterback Caleb Williams, a connection that could draw Carroll back to the NFL.

The competition for the Bears job

Carroll is one of the top names linked to the position, but he faces competition. Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is reportedly “intrigued” by the role, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Carroll’s experience and proven ability to transform teams may give him an edge.

Image: Imagn Images

Barry Switzer

Bears HC

Jim Harbaugh

Jimmy Johnson

Pete Carroll

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
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