Why does Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll think his former linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. is ready to take the next step as Raiders defensive coordinator?



Just ask him.

“He’s a born leader. This guy has done so much in his career. He stands for leadership. He stands for standards and toughness and the willingness to step to the front and take on what’s out there. He’s been that kind of a person,” Norton said. “His father has raised him in that manner, with a tremendous backup system from a great father and Kenny has taken those lessons and moved ahead and done marvelous.

“He’s the only guy in history that has won three straight world championships. How could you do that? He did on two different clubs. And he was a leader in each one of those seasons. He takes all of that. In our process we tried to get him ready to convey and translate the message so he can transfer it to the players.

“I think he does a marvelous job. Just look at the guys he’s coached, back to the college years and all. I think he’ll have the same kind of success and I think he’s crucial to young men. He’s a great guy for guys to be around because of what he stands for and who he is. I’m thrilled for this opportunity for him.”