The end of an era: Pete Carroll’s final season in Seattle
In short: After 14 years of leadership, the 2023 season marked a definitive turning point for the Seattle Seahawks. Despite matching their previous year's record, a series of injuries and defensive lapses led to a postseason absence and the conclusion of one of the NFL's most enduring coaching tenures.
The 2023 season served as the final chapter for the Pete Carroll and John Schneider head coach/general manager tandem. While the Seahawks managed to match their 9–8 record from 2022, they failed to secure a playoff berth. Ranking third within the NFC West, they trailed both the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers; a strength of victory tiebreaker eventually denied them a Wild Card berth during a three-way deadlock involving New Orleans Saints and Green Bay Packers.
The campaign was defined by volatility. Following an opening 5–2 run, major injuries struck vital personnel such as Devon Witherspoon, DK Metcalf, Kenneth Walker III, plus quarterback Geno Smith. These setbacks, combined with poor defensive play, resulted in losing five of their next six games. A pivotal loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers stripped Seattle of control over their own destiny, while a 3–8 record against winning teams underscored the team's struggles.
The season also signaled major organizational shifts. It was the first year since 2009 that Dave Canales remained off the payroll before eventually moving on to become the head coach of the Carolina Panthers. On January 10, 2024, just three days after the season ended, Carroll and the Seahawks mutually agreed to part ways. Carroll transitioned into an advisory role before joining the Las Vegas Raiders as head coach the following year.
On the field, the season was marked by intense divisional rivalries. The Seahawks suffered a sweep at the hands of the Los Angeles Rams, including a Week 10 game where Geno Smith suffered a brutal elbow injury from Aaron Donald. Despite high-drama moments—such as a violent Suplex tackle by Devon Witherspoon and a late 92-yard touchdown drive against the Philadelphia Eagles—the season ultimately closed with a 9–8 finish.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 2023 Seattle Seahawks season
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