Pete Carroll Throws Shade On That Turmoil Talk At Seahawks Presser
Pete Carroll proved once more why he’s at the very top of the coaching profession today. The Seahawks coach had a lot to say in his press conference after the first OTA. He initially addressed the progress of some of their injured stars. It got very interesting very quickly.
On the great work of injured players rehabbing so quickly
The first question was about Luke Joeckel’s progress. Pete was happy. Clearly happy.
"“We’re really fired up about the fact that Luke has been able to work every day. He’s worked every day of the off-season with us. In the format we’re doing he’s able to be in the huddle a ton. He’s practiced a bunch with us, so he’s making really good progress…”"
As you’ve heard by now, it wasn’t just the new offensive tackle (or maybe guard) that surprised the Seahawks with his work ethic.
"“Same is going on for Eddie too, and Earl as well. Kam too. The guys that we thought might be slowed up at this time are able to get enough work that they’re feeling some continuity and getting a workload…it’s working out really well.”"
The questions about Richard Sherman begin
Now things start to get really interesting. Coach Carroll is asked about how Richard Sherman has been during the OTAs. We all know the implication. The unspoken word: turmoil.
"“He’s worked his tail off. He’s been right on it… in good shape, working hard…he’s been right on it. [Richard’s] helping the young guys like we count on him to do…he’s been right in there with everybody. Really good job.”"
The next question digs deeper. Did the trade talk affect Sherman? Has it affected his attitude? Pete has the answer to that, and he really gets fired up. Well, for Pete.
"“I don’t know if you guys get it, but we’re kinda living as a family in this situation. These guys have grown up with us as football players. We go through a lot of changes. There’s a lot of things that happen, there are a lot of challenges in all directions. Not just for one, for all of our guys. I’m dedicated. I’m dedicated to making progress as we go. That doesn’t mean everything’s always going ahead exactly as you planned. Sometimes there’s setbacks and challenges. Matter of fact, if you don’t count on that, you don’t understand. We’re in great shape. Whatever you guys think may be otherwise, we’re in great shape right now.”"
You can hear this for yourself if you begin at the 2:50 mark. You really should listen to the entire press conference, of course.
Pete Carroll post-OTA press conference from VMAC. https://t.co/qykBREIoBo
— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) June 2, 2017
Pete Carroll addresses favoritism on the Seahawks
"“I show favoritism to every one of these guys, every one of them…They’re all different, they’re all unique. They deserve the individual attention that they get. If I wasn’t doing that, I’m not reaching in to help them be the best they can be. You don’t think it’s working, then too bad. I think it’s working pretty darn well.”"
Imagine that. A coach that treats his players as individuals, yet holds each player accountable. Could that be why Pete Carroll is respected by his players, because he sees them as individuals? Yeah, could be.
Of course Pete has heard the rumors and heard about the articles. It’s obvious the Seahawks coach is having none of it. Of course this won’t stop the conjecture, the blogs, the tweets. Everybody wants pageviews. Everybody has to eat. It’s a shame so much of this supposed turmoil is based on old news, as Coach Carroll said.
Pete had other big news, too. If you watch the entire clip, you’ll hear it for yourself. But that’s a subject for another column.