
Pete Carroll – Biography SEE MORE
Date of Birth: September 15, 1951
Place of Birth: San Francisco, California, U.S.
Profession: Football Coach, Executive
Notable Roles: Head Coach of the Seattle Seahawks (NFL), Former Head Coach of USC Trojans (NCAA)
Early Life and Education
Pete Carroll was born in San Francisco and raised in nearby Greenbrae, California. He attended Redwood High School in Larkspur, where he played multiple sports. Despite being smaller than most football players, Carroll’s competitive spirit was evident from a young age.
He attended the College of Marin before transferring to the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. There, he played free safety for the football team and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1973. He later earned a Master’s in physical education while working as a graduate assistant.
Coaching Career – Early Years
Carroll began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Pacific. Over the years, he climbed the coaching ranks with roles at:
- Arkansas (GA under Lou Holtz)
- Iowa State
- Ohio State
- NC State
- Pacific (his alma mater)
In 1984, he entered the NFL as a defensive backs coach with the Buffalo Bills, then moved to the Minnesota Vikings (1985–1989), where he built a reputation as a sharp defensive mind.
NFL Head Coaching Career
Carroll had head coaching stints with:
- New York Jets (1994): His first head coaching job, which lasted only one season.
- New England Patriots (1997–1999): Took over after Bill Parcells. The team had moderate success but not enough to secure his long-term future.
USC Trojans Dynasty (2001–2009)
Carroll’s most prominent early success came when he became head coach of the USC Trojans in 2001, a controversial hire at the time. Under his leadership, USC became a powerhouse in college football:
- Two national championships (2003, 2004*)
- Seven consecutive Pac-10 titles
- Produced numerous NFL stars: Reggie Bush, Matt Leinart, Troy Polamalu, among others
Note: The 2004 national title was later vacated due to NCAA sanctions related to improper benefits given to Reggie Bush.
Despite the controversy, Carroll’s tenure at USC is considered one of the most dominant in college football history.
Seattle Seahawks and Super Bowl Glory (2010–2023)
Carroll returned to the NFL as head coach and executive VP of the Seattle Seahawks in 2010. There, he:
- Built the “Legion of Boom” defense
- Drafted and developed quarterback Russell Wilson
- Led the Seahawks to Super Bowl XLVIII (2013 season), winning 43–8 over the Denver Broncos
- Reached another Super Bowl the following year but lost to the Patriots after a controversial goal-line play call
Carroll remained with the Seahawks through the 2023 season, becoming the winningest coach in franchise history. Known for his energetic personality and motivational style, he transformed Seattle into a perennial playoff contender.
In 2024, he transitioned from head coach to an executive advisor role within the organization.
Coaching Philosophy
Carroll is known for his “Always Compete” philosophy and focus on positivity, team culture, and player development. He emphasizes treating players as individuals and maximizing their potential on and off the field.
Personal Life
Pete Carroll is married to Glena Goranson, whom he met at the University of the Pacific. They have three children, including Brennan Carroll, who has also worked in coaching.
Legacy
Pete Carroll’s legacy is marked by:
- Success at both the college and professional levels (a rare feat)
- A focus on culture, competition, and positivity
- A unique energy and leadership style that has influenced modern coaching
He is widely regarded as one of the most successful and respected football coaches of his era.