Jack Del Rio Blasts Raiders Culture Under Pete Carroll, Cites Lack of “Buy-In”

The Las Vegas Raiders’ dismal 2025 season has hit a new low. Former head coach Jack Del Rio has publicly criticized the current team’s culture under Pete Carroll. Del Rio questioned the players’ commitment to Carroll’s messaging in a recent interview.

This stark assessment comes as the Raiders languish near the bottom of the league standings. The team’s performance has sparked internal turmoil and widespread fan frustration.

A Damning Assessment from a Former Leader

Jack Del Rio, who led the Raiders to a playoff berth in 2016, did not hold back. He spoke on the “Silver State Sports & Entertainment Network.” Del Rio stated he does not see the necessary “buy-in” from the players.

He contrasted Carroll’s collegiate-style approach with the traditional Raider identity. Del Rio emphasized that the historic franchise was built on a physical, rule-agnostic mentality. According to Del Rio, that essential toughness is currently missing.

The former coach specifically pointed to issues in the trenches. He also criticized the delayed use of a drafted offensive lineman as indicative of deeper problems. This public critique from a respected former figure adds significant pressure to an already struggling regime.

Mounting Pressure in a Historic Downturn

The 2025 campaign is being labeled one of the worst in franchise history. Expectations of progress have been彻底 dashed. Carroll has already fired both his offensive and defensive coordinators mid-season, a first for him.

This move suggests deep systemic issues within the football operation. Many analysts, as reported by outlets like ESPN and The Associated Press, question if Carroll’s philosophy still works in the modern NFL. The organization faces a critical decision about his future following the final games.

For fans, the season represents a profound disappointment. The lack of identity and competitiveness contradicts the storied legacy of the Raiders. Del Rio’s comments simply vocalize what many observers have seen all year.

The criticism from Jack Del Rio underscores a profound cultural disconnect within the Las Vegas Raiders. His comments solidify the narrative of a lost season and a franchise at a crossroads. The final games will likely decide Pete Carroll’s fate in Las Vegas.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who is Jack Del Rio?

Jack Del Rio was the head coach of the then-Oakland Raiders from 2015 to 2017. He led the team to a 12-4 record and a playoff appearance in the 2016 season.

Why did Pete Carroll fire his coordinators?

Carroll fired his offensive and defensive coordinators mid-season due to the team’s historically poor performance. This was an unprecedented move for him, aimed at sparking a change.

What is the Raiders’ record this season?

While the exact record varies as the season concludes, multiple reports from sources like the AP confirm the Raiders are among the NFL’s worst teams in 2025.

What did Del Rio mean by “buy-in”?

“Buy-in” refers to players fully believing in and committing to a coach’s system, philosophy, and message. Del Rio suggests the Raiders players lack that faith in Carroll’s approach.

Could Pete Carroll be fired after one year?

Yes. Given the team’s severe underperformance and mounting criticism, Carroll’s job security is very much in question. The team’s owner will evaluate the situation after the season ends.