After a disastrous performance on Sunday against the Commanders, Las Vegas Raiders fans have been screaming for the team to terminate Brennan Carroll’s employment. The new offensive line coach has displayed regression from all players in his position group. In addition, Carroll is also the run game coordinator. Ashton Jeanty has struggled to have any production so far.
Speculation suggests that Brennan’s coaching position is due to nepotism, as his father, Pete, has been influential in his career. He has not secured an NFL coaching job independently of his father’s support. However, he did achieve some success in college football and during his time in Seattle alongside his father.
Who’s more to blame for the issues plaguing the Raiders offense right now?
— RaiderRamble.com™ (@TheRaiderRamble) September 21, 2025
History shows Brennan Carroll is a competent coach…
One of the reasons Raider Nation is furious with the coaching staff is the personnel changes. Despite Jackson Powers-Johnson’s stellar performance in 2024, Carroll chose to change his position. The Oregon alumnus now plays right guard instead of center. The new coach offered insight into this decision before the season began.
“When you’re playing guard, you can focus on your assignment,” Carroll said. “I think it has been beneficial to him.”
In contrast, his coaching debut in Seattle was entirely different from what he has experienced in Las Vegas up until now. Not only did the team have a top five offense, but also a top three rushing attack. The offensive line in 2015 did not have many notable names either. The best player was the left tackle, Russell Okung.
Marshawn Lynch was clearly the focal point of the rushing scheme. However, he did suffer an injury, which led to Thomas Rawls becoming the team’s leading rusher. Regardless of individual opinions, Carroll’s Seattle tenure as assistant offensive line coach certainly merits some recognition.
Why is the O-line struggling in Sin City?
Although Powers-Johnson was transitioned because of a communication issue, that still remains a glaring problem. In all of the first three games, defenders bolt into Geno Smith’s view without any difficulty. The offensive line lacks cohesiveness. Because of this, the team has the second-most sacks allowed with 12. In addition, the team is second in sack yards lost with 87.
Despite the offensive line being a struggle in 2024, this new regime in Sin City did not properly address the position. The Raiders used two draft picks on offensive linemen this year. However, neither player has played in a regular season game. Brennan’s father, Pete, spoke about the matter in his presser on Monday.
“Our young guys will get their turn some time,” Carroll said. “But they’re not ready yet.”
Charles Grant and Caleb Rogers both struggled in the preseason, but the situation cannot get much worse than right now.
In truth, Brennan Carroll could be the problem with the offensive line. Until this position group sees some adjustments, he will continue to be the scapegoat. What is the real reason the offensive line is struggling?
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*Top Photo: Associated Press