After a successful 14-season tenure, Pete Carroll has announced his departure as the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. The 72-year-old former Super Bowl champion will transition into an advisory role, paving the way for a new leader to take charge of the team. Carroll had initially expressed his intention to return for the 2024 season but has now decided to pass the torch.

During Carroll's tenure, the Seahawks enjoyed a sustained period of success, making the playoffs in 10 of his 14 years at the helm. However, in recent seasons, they failed to secure a postseason berth in two out of the last three years. As the search for Carroll's successor begins, five frontrunners have emerged as logical candidates for the position.

The first potential candidate is Lions offensive coordinator, Johnson. At just 37 years old, Johnson has been praised for designing a quarterback-friendly system in Detroit, which played a significant role in the team hosting their first playoff game in 30 years. His innovative approach to the game could be appealing to the Seahawks as they look to usher in a new era.

Another contender is former Titans head coach, Vrabel. Despite leading his team to three playoff runs in his first four years, Vrabel was let go due to a misaligned vision with the team's management. In Seattle, where the focus is on maintaining a win-now mentality with experienced players, Vrabel's defensive expertise could be a valuable addition.

Staying within the organization, Seahawks offensive coordinator, Waldron, also emerges as a strong candidate. With four years of experience under Sean McVay in Los Angeles, Waldron seamlessly transitioned the offense from Russell Wilson to Geno Smith in 2021. If he doesn't secure the head coaching position, Waldron could be a sought-after candidate for other high-profile coordinator roles.

In a twist of fate, Michigan head coach, Harbaugh, could potentially become Carroll's successor. Despite their past rivalry in both college and the NFL, Harbaugh's West Coast success and the Seahawks' desire for immediate competitiveness could align. Moreover, this would offer Harbaugh an opportunity to surpass his old team, the 49ers, at least twice a year.

The final candidate to consider is Cowboys defensive coordinator, Quinn. With clear ties to Carroll and the Seahawks, Quinn presents a strong option for the head coaching role. Serving as Carroll's defensive coordinator during the Seahawks' dominant "Legion of Boom" era and later as the head coach of the Falcons, Quinn's expertise and familiarity with the team could make him an ideal fit.

As the search for the next Seahawks head coach begins, it remains to be seen who will ultimately take the reins of the franchise. The decision will have far-reaching implications as Seattle aims to return to their winning ways and reclaim their place in the NFL playoffs.