INDIANAPOLIS — As former Seahawks and USC coach Pete Carroll eyed job openings in his push to return to the NFL, the Bears were one of the first teams linked to him. And when the Bears launched their interview process early last month, he was one of the first candidates with whom they met.

Raiders coach Pete Carroll reflected on his memorable run in Seattle during his press conference at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Jerry Jones was narrowing in on Brian Schottenheimer to become the Cowboys' next head coach. One of the last calls he placed before making the decision was to Pete Carroll. What the veteran coach told Jones is similar to what he told reporters about Schottenheimer Tuesday afternoon at the NFL scouting combine.

A former mentor of Brian Schottenheimer has expressed confidence in the Dallas Cowboys' first-time head coach's readiness for this moment.