The arrival of Pete Carroll in Las Vegas has brought an unmistakable buzz to the Raiders organization. While many anticipated big changes, few knew what that would mean for the existing staff. Among the most watched developments was Carroll’s decision to retain defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. Now, for the first time since Carroll’s hiring, Graham has opened up about the transition — and his remarks are revealing.
Patrick Graham Reflects on Learning from Pete Carroll’s Leadership
When asked about working alongside Carroll, Graham couldn’t hide his appreciation. “Anytime you get a chance to work with someone with that experience, that level of success, I couldn’t be happier,” he said, describing it as beneficial for his growth. While some speculated that Carroll might bring in familiar faces from his past — names like Gus Bradley, Ken Norton Jr., or Kris Richard — the decision to keep Graham signaled both continuity and trust in his vision.
Their collaboration hasn’t been without adjustment. Graham’s defensive philosophy differs from the system Carroll implemented in Seattle, but that hasn’t posed a problem. In fact, Graham has embraced the opportunity to learn from one of the NFL’s most respected minds. “Just having somebody to be able to talk to about situational football, talk about defensive philosophy, it’s been great for me,” he explained.
“We are watching a master teacher work on his craft.” – #Raiders DC Patrick Graham, on new coach Pete Carroll pic.twitter.com/bdzYEB392j
— Paul Gutierrez (@PaulHGutierrez) June 4, 2025
Graham went on to describe Carroll’s influence not just as a coach, but as a teacher: “We’re watching a master teacher working at his craft and seeing it live and in person. It’s real beneficial for us.” According to Graham, being exposed to Carroll’s approach has helped everyone in the building – coaches and players alike.
What’s especially telling is Graham’s repeated use of the word “selfish” — not in a negative sense, but to express how much he’s personally gaining from this partnership. “From being selfish… it’s been something really good and positive for me,” he said, later adding, “I couldn’t be happier with the situation.”
Every NFL offseason brings change, and Graham knows that well. But this particular offseason feels like more than routine adjustments. It feels like a transformation. With Carroll at the helm and Graham by his side, the Raiders are navigating that shift with cautious optimism — and, clearly, a deep respect for the man leading the way.