Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek met with the media on Monday after firing coach Pete Carroll after just one season. Here are some highlights:
Spytek, who was hired just days before Carroll, took responsibility for the team’s 3-14 record and said that accountability begins and ends with him. “I bear a ton of responsibility.”
He said the team wants to build the right way and knows it has a “big mountain” to climb. He noted a turnaround will not happen overnight. Yet, with the No. 1 overall draft pick and the second most salary-cap room, Spytek’s knows the Raiders have an opportunity to improve this offense.
As he always does, Spytek credited part owner Tom Brady for being a great partner. The two will lead the coaching search.
He said he needs to surround rookie running back Ashton Jeanty with players who can help him —- so that likely means signing offensive linemen in free agency.
Spytek said the new head coach will be in charge of hiring his own staff. That lends credence to reports that offensive coordinator Chip Kelly was forced on Carroll.
Spytek said Maxx Crosby “embodies” what it means to be a Raider, but didn’t go too deep into his future.
Spytek met with Carroll’s staff and they are all under contract. There future will likely be determined by the next head coach. However, teams usually lets coaches leave early if they wish.
Spytek would discuss Geno Smith’s future, but it’s obvious he will very likely not return.
Spytek noted he had some whiffs in not retaining some 2025 Raiders’ free agents and he has to improve in that area.
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