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'I still love Earl': Pete Carroll breaks silence as bond with Earl Thomas ends in painful silence
Pete Carroll breaks silence as bond with Earl Thomas ends in painful silence (Image via Getty)
It's not easy when close bonds break apart. This is what has appeared to happen between former Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll and retired legendary safety Earl Thomas. Once one of the most trusted coach-player pairings in the NFL, they led Seattle Seahawks' defense through arguably its best seasons.
But now, Pete Carroll has said something that surprised many fans. While he still cares for Earl Thomas, the feeling may not be the same from the other side. The reason behind this change is both personal and painful.
Pete Carroll says he still loves Earl Thomas but feels the bond is broken
In a recent interview shared in June 2025, former Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, 72, spoke about his relationship with Earl Thomas, 35. Pete Carroll said, 'I still love Earl. He doesn't love me.' This simple but emotional quote quickly made headlines.
Earl Thomas played for the Seahawks from 2010 till 2018. Part of the renowned "Legion of Boom" defense, he helped the team win Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014. However, things ended on a rough note. During a game in 2018, Earl Thomas broke his leg and, while being carted off the field, was seen giving the middle finger toward the Seattle Seahawks' sideline—something many believe was directed at Pete Carroll.
Pete Carroll never responded harshly.
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And even now, years later, he speaks with care. 'He's been through a lot,' Pete Carroll said about Thomas Earl personal struggles, adding that it hurts to see what's happened to someone he still sees with respect.
Earl Thomas faced serious issues after leaving football
Earl Thomas joined the Baltimore Ravens in 2019 after spending time with the Seattle Seahawks. But he was let go by team conflicts by 2020. Since then, he's faced several serious personal problems. In 2022, Thomas was in the news for legal trouble involving family matters and safety concerns.
Fans who once cheered him now hope for peace in his life. Despite everything, Pete Carroll's message was clear—he still holds love for Earl Thomas, even if the connection may be lost.
The story has touched many, especially those who remember their time at the top together.
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