'We control the attitude': How Pete Carroll is injecting 'fire and energy' into team during OTAs

May 21, 2025 at 04:10 PM

Levi Edwards

Digital Team Reporter

As the Nevada sun beamed down on nearly 90 Raiders players and dozens of coaches at the second day of organized team activities (OTAs), the energy was apparent.

The team rallied together after the stretching period, dancing collectively to "O Let's Do It" by Waka Flocka Flame, and once the huddle dispersed, it was quite literally off to races.

Pete Carroll sprinted full speed with his coaching staff as offensive players began individual drills, high-fiving each of his players. Shortly after, he sprinted over to the other practice field where the defense was warming up, doing the exact same thing.

The enthusiasm he brings to practice isn't being faked or heightened for face value. He comes across genuinely excited to attack the day. And more importantly, he expects the same approach from his players and staff.

📍Outchea at OTAs #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/hcyvsetEYb
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) May 20, 2025

Related Links

"They've been challenged from the moment we got here that we control the attitude. We control what we bring every day," Carroll told local media after Wednesday's OTA practice. "And so, in that challenge, if you want to be really good, you've got to work your tail off, and you've got to bring your energy and bring your juice. That's the way they have opportunities to express what kind of a teammate they are. They've been called on and you can see the result of it. They're really working with the kind of fire and energy that we expect."

While still early in the offseason, this vibe from Carroll has become expected from his new team – and greatly appreciated.

"He's been on fire, just lighting everybody up and really bringing the energy" Brock Bowers said of Carroll.

Bowers is getting to know Carroll better as the tight end recently returned to Las Vegas after fulfilling his graduation requirements from University of Georgia.

"I didn't really know what to expect coming back a little late, but I heard really good things and coming back obviously it's been awesome."

"Everyone's getting juiced up together," Bowers added. "You get to know people a little bit better when you guys are all enjoying yourself and having a good time."

Carroll's aura bled into the defensive showing from the team Wednesday. They snatched away four interceptions, thanks to linebacker Tommy Eichenberg and safety trio Jeremy Chinn, Chris Smith II and Lonnie Johnson Jr.

The Raiders head coach praised the performance of the secondary, stating he wanted to give the offense a few looks they haven't seen yet. The defense certainly took advantage of the given circumstances, especially Maxx Crosby, whose motor never seems to stop. Like Bowers, the edge rusher has been responsive to his new coach's energy and acknowledges the positive affect it's had on the team throughout the offseason program.

"Coach Carroll, he's been amazing," Crosby said. "He's hilarious. He loves the game of football; he's obsessed with it. Makes it fun, makes it enjoyable every day you show up in the building and that's all you can ask for. He's a legendary coach, résumé speaks for itself, and I'm just trying to learn as much as I possibly can from him."

"I would just say, it starts when you walk in the building," Crosby added, "and I feel like Pete just does such a good job of creating a culture and an environment where you're looking forward to being here."

This early in the year, everyone is excited just to be back on the football field. But the task for Carroll and his team is maintaining this level of energy as they creep into training camp and the regular season.

Even that dry desert heat can't ruin their parade.

"I didn't think this was hot yet," Carroll joked. "Yeah, so I'm not complaining about the heat at all."

1 / 108

Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) at an Organized Team Activity (OTA) at Intermountain Health Performance Center.