Pete Carroll is considering a return to the sidelines and has a possible destination in mind.
ESPN reports that the former Seattle Seahawks coach has expressed interest in the Chicago Bears’ 2025 open position.
It’s unclear if the Bears have reciprocated interest in Carroll. The Bears are reportedly looking for a “leader of men” type coach after Chicago fired Matt Eberflus on Nov. 29. Wide receiver DJ Moore said general manager Ryan Poles told him yes.
Throughout his career, Carroll has been an effective leader at both the professional and collegiate levels. In fact, he is only one of three coaches to win a national championship and a Super Bowl. In his most recent coaching gig, Carroll helped transform the Seahawks into one of the best teams in the league, coaching them to 10 playoff appearances in 14 seasons in Seattle. Overall, he went 137-89-1 and led the Seahawks to two Super Bowls and a title.
Bill Belichick also reportedly contacted the Bears before taking the North Carolina job. ESPN previously reported that Chicago would likely look for an offensive-minded coach. With Belichick out of the picture, Carroll is the best coach on the market, but there could be similar obstacles in Chicago. Like Belichick, Carroll has a defensive background and is older than the former Patriots coach. Carroll will turn 74 in just a few weeks after the 2025 season.
Whether the Bears are interested or not, Carroll said he now wants to return to coaching, although he hasn’t spoken to any teams yet. ESPN reported. In addition to the Bears, the New Orleans Saints and New York Jets also have head coaching vacancies. Of course, other teams could join the mix once the season ends. Carroll coached the Jets for one season in 1994.
Are you surprised that the Bears are having another poor season?
If Carroll is hired by a team this offseason, he would become the oldest head coach in NFL history. Romeo Crennel hit 73 as he became the interim coach of the Houston Texans during the 2020 season.
The Bears are on a nine-game losing streak, including all three games since interim coach Thomas Brown took over for Eberflus. The 4-11 Bears face Carroll’s former team, the Seahawks, on Thursday night.
(Want great stories delivered straight to your inbox? Create or log in to a FOX Sports account and follow leagues, teams and players to receive personalized newsletters every day..)
Get more information from the National Football League Follow your favorites for information on games, news, and more.
