The Las Vegas Raiders are set to face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, marking the debut of interim offensive coordinator Greg Olson. Olson steps in following the dismissal of Chip Kelly amid a disappointing season for the Raiders, who currently hold a record of 2-9. This change is part of a broader effort to address the team’s struggles, as they recently also parted ways with special teams coordinator Tom McMahon on November 7, 2023.
With these significant coaching changes, questions arise about the future of head coach Pete Carroll. Fans are increasingly concerned about whether he can lead the team back to success, particularly given his age of 74. Carroll was brought in to elevate the team’s performance but has yet to achieve that goal. According to sports columnist Vincent Bonsignore, the Raiders will examine all aspects of their operation after this challenging season, including Carroll’s role.
Carroll’s comments earlier in the year suggested he believed the team was closer to being competitive than it currently appears. The reality of the Raiders’ roster indicates substantial work is needed to improve their standing. While no one doubts Carroll’s experience and capabilities, the question remains whether he is equipped to manage a lengthy rebuild at this stage in his career. There is speculation that the Raiders might consider a younger coach who could grow alongside the team.
Fans have also inquired about potential replacements for Carroll should the team decide to make a change. Bonsignore mentioned several candidates, emphasizing the offensive coordinators currently making waves in the NFL. Notable names include Joe Brady of the Buffalo Bills, Todd Monken with the Baltimore Ravens, and Frank Smith of the Miami Dolphins. On the defensive side, figures like Robert Saleh of the San Francisco 49ers and Ejiro Evero of the Carolina Panthers are also seen as intriguing possibilities.
In addition to coaching concerns, fans are interested in the status of key players returning from injury. Kolton Miller, the left tackle, may be poised to return from an ankle injury, while the status of right guard Jackson Powers-Johnson remains uncertain. Bonsignore highlighted potential free agent targets for the offseason, including guards David Edwards from the Bills and Tyler Linderbaum from the Ravens, along with tackles Braden Smith of the Colts and Jonah Williams of the Cardinals.
The performance of younger players has also drawn scrutiny, particularly the limited playing time for second- and third-round draft picks. Bonsignore noted this suggests Carroll is prioritizing immediate wins over player development. Rookies like wide receiver Jack Bech and offensive lineman Caleb Rogers have seen minimal action, which raises concerns among fans about their future contributions to the team.
Quarterback Geno Smith has faced criticism for his conduct on and off the field. Following a loss to the Cleveland Browns on November 23, 2023, Smith directed an obscene gesture at fans, a moment that underscored his frustrations with the season’s trajectory. Despite this incident, his standing among coaches and teammates remains strong as they recognize his challenges during this turbulent time.
As the Raiders prepare to take on the Chargers, the implications of recent coaching changes and the performance of key players will be closely monitored. The upcoming game may serve as a pivotal moment for the organization, impacting decisions about the future direction of the franchise.
