Pete Carroll’s final season with Geno Smith at the Raiders didn’t quite meet expectations, yet the veteran coach still has faith that Smith can contribute positively to the Jets.
Interestingly, Smith seems to be taking his return to the Jets—where things got a bit rocky the first time—with a sense of humor. “I had to laugh a little bit considering the history and everything else,” Carroll mentioned during an ESPN interview.
Having coached Smith from 2019 to 2023 with the Seahawks, Carroll values their relationship and views Smith as a “phenomenal” quarterback.
“I love talking about G,” Carroll said. Though his tenure with the Raiders ended after a dismal 3-14 season, his admiration for Smith remained strong. “I think I see him in a different way than most people do. I love him and appreciate him differently.”
Carroll, who led the Seahawks to a Super Bowl win in 2014, traded for Smith in 2025, aiming to recreate their earlier success. He also feels accountable for Smith’s struggles in Las Vegas. “He had a great offseason and preseason with us. He came out in the first game and everything just clicked. It was just the right time for us. After that, we just jittered,” he elaborated, acknowledging some shortcomings in coaching.
Last season, after being traded to the Jets, Smith had a tough outing, leading the league in both interceptions (17) and sacks (55). Carroll also made significant changes, including firing offensive coordinator Chip Kelly mid-season.
“I should have prepared him better for what happened. Then it wouldn’t have happened,” Carroll reflected. He expressed regret over not prepping adequately for what lay ahead, adding the situation was disappointing for both of them.
Despite their tough experiences in Las Vegas, Smith continues to hold Carroll in high regard. “That guy is special. He’s a Hall of Fame coach and a Hall of Fame person,” he said, noting his desire to win a Super Bowl for Carroll. Unfortunately, things didn’t unfold as hoped.
Carroll fully stands by Smith’s choice to return to the Jets. Smith initially started 29 games for Gang Green in 2013 and 2014, but a broken jaw from a locker room incident led to him losing his starting position.
“If he felt like [New York] was the right move, I couldn’t support him more because it’s a good place for him,” Carroll said. “I love the person and want what’s best for him. He deserves this. He worked really hard to get where he is now.”
