Marshawn Lynch Reunites with Pete Carroll, Meets Ashton Jeanty at Raiders Mini Camp
In a heartwarming moment that blended nostalgia with excitement for the future, former NFL running back Marshawn Lynch reunited with longtime Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll at the Las Vegas Raiders’ mini camp this week. The scene was a mix of old memories and new connections as Lynch also had a memorable meeting with rising Boise State star Ashton Jeanty, who is gaining early attention after being invited to the Raiders’ camp as part of the league’s expanded rookie development outreach.
Lynch, known for his bruising running style and larger-than-life personality, looked relaxed but focused as he strolled onto the Raiders’ practice field wearing a black-and-silver hoodie and a wide grin. Although officially retired from professional football, the five-time Pro Bowler continues to stay closely connected to the sport. His presence in Las Vegas is part of his ongoing role as a mentor and ambassador for young athletes, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.
The unexpected appearance of Pete Carroll, who coached Lynch during the most successful period of his NFL career in Seattle, sent waves of surprise and joy through the mini camp. The two legends shared a warm embrace, drawing cheers and chuckles from onlookers who remembered the fierce competitiveness—and occasional tension—of their shared Seahawks tenure.
“It’s always love,” Lynch said after the brief on-field reunion. “We went to battle together. That’s family, regardless of what people outside say or think.”
Carroll, who recently transitioned into a senior advisory role with the Seahawks after over a decade as head coach, was invited by Raiders leadership to speak to players and staff about culture building and leadership. While he no longer coaches on the sidelines, Carroll’s energy and charisma remain intact. He beamed when asked about seeing Lynch again.
“Marshawn is one of the all-time greats—not just in terms of what he did on the field, but what he brought to the locker room,” Carroll said. “It was awesome to see him, and it felt just like old times.”
The reunion between Carroll and Lynch served as a symbolic bridge between generations, and it was fitting that a player like Ashton Jeanty was present to witness it. The 20-year-old Boise State standout has quickly become one of the more intriguing young talents in college football. Jeanty’s dual-threat capability—both as a rusher and receiver—has earned him national attention, and his performance at the mini camp turned more than a few heads.
When Lynch and Jeanty met, it was a study in contrasts and potential. Lynch, the grizzled veteran with Super Bowl pedigree and years of highlights behind him; Jeanty, the hopeful rising star still carving out his identity. Yet both share the same running back DNA: physicality, vision, and the ability to turn broken plays into game-changing moments.
“Man, it was surreal,” Jeanty said after the interaction. “I grew up watching Marshawn. I tried to model parts of my game after his toughness and the way he made defenders pay. To shake his hand and chop it up a bit—huge moment for me.”
According to team insiders, Lynch offered Jeanty a few words of advice and encouragement, emphasizing the importance of “being your own beast” and “running with heart before you run with feet.” While brief, the interaction clearly left a lasting impression on Jeanty and several of the other young players in attendance.
Jeanty’s inclusion in the Raiders’ mini camp is part of a new league initiative aimed at broadening the talent pool and giving college players earlier exposure to NFL environments. His performance has been consistent and explosive, displaying quick decision-making, low pad level, and a burst through gaps that is rare for a player of his age.
While Lynch’s future with the Raiders organization remains unofficial, there’s increasing speculation that he may take on a more defined role within the team’s player development structure. His leadership, authenticity, and connection with young athletes could make him a powerful asset off the field.
As for Pete Carroll, his visit to Las Vegas served as another reminder that his influence extends far beyond Seattle. Even in his advisory capacity, Carroll continues to shape the culture of football—instilling his trademark philosophy of “Always Compete” wherever he goes.
The mini camp ended with smiles, handshakes, and a palpable sense of momentum. For a few unforgettable hours in the Nevada sun, the past and future of football collided—seasoned legends like Marshawn Lynch and Pete Carroll sharing space with the next generation, represented by players like Ashton Jeanty.
It was more than just a camp; it was a passing of the torch, a shared moment of football lineage that underscored the timeless spirit of the game.
