Following their triumphant Super Bowl 60 victory, Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald has wasted no time in initiating a comprehensive search for a new offensive coordinator. This swift action comes in the wake of Klint Kubiak's departure to become the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. Macdonald's immediate priority is to ensure continuity and strengthen his coaching staff, a crucial step in building upon the team's recent success. The process involves evaluating both promising internal talent and exploring external candidates, demonstrating a thorough approach to this pivotal appointment.
Macdonald's strategic decision to prioritize internal candidates for the offensive coordinator role reflects his commitment to nurturing existing talent within the Seahawks organization. While considering external options to bring fresh perspectives, his focus on those already familiar with the team's culture and players underscores a desire for a seamless transition and sustained performance. This methodical approach to leadership demonstrates Macdonald's forward-thinking mindset and his dedication to assembling a cohesive and effective coaching unit capable of leading the Seahawks to continued excellence.
Macdonald's Immediate Focus: Internal Candidates and Kubiak's Departure
In the immediate aftermath of the Super Bowl win, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald promptly began the search for a new offensive coordinator. This urgent need arose following Klint Kubiak's widely anticipated move to become the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, a decision officially confirmed shortly after the Super Bowl celebrations. Macdonald wasted no time, initiating interviews with internal candidates the day after the team's return from the championship, even before the celebratory parade in Seattle. This rapid response highlights Macdonald's commitment to maintaining momentum and ensuring a smooth transition for the team's offensive strategy.
Macdonald's preferred approach is to promote from within, recognizing the value of coaches already integrated into the Seahawks' system. The primary internal candidates include 37-year-old quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko, passing game coordinator Jake Peetz, assistant offensive line coach and run game specialist Justin Outten, and tight ends coach Mack Brown. These individuals possess an intimate understanding of the team's dynamics and player capabilities, making them strong contenders for the role. Janocko, in particular, demonstrated exceptional skill in working with quarterbacks Sam Darnold, Drew Lock, and rookie Jalen Milroe, a key factor Macdonald aims to preserve for offensive continuity. This internal focus aims to leverage existing relationships and institutional knowledge, minimizing disruption and fostering a familiar environment for the players.
Expanding the Search: External Talent and Staff Stability
While prioritizing internal candidates, Macdonald has also expanded his search to include external talent, demonstrating a comprehensive and open-minded approach to finding the best offensive coordinator. The first external candidate identified is Connor Senger, the 30-year-old pass game specialist from the Arizona Cardinals. Senger brings a unique set of experiences, having served as the offensive coordinator at Central Washington University and the offensive quality control coordinator for North Dakota State, where he worked with current Seahawks offensive linemen Jalen Sundell and Grey Zabel. His background and prior interviews with other NFL teams, including the Bears and Eagles, indicate his growing reputation within the league. This move signifies Macdonald's willingness to look beyond the immediate circle to find an innovative and impactful leader for the Seahawks' offense.
Despite the changes at offensive coordinator, Macdonald has successfully maintained stability among the rest of his coaching staff, a crucial element for a Super Bowl-winning team. Most assistant coaches are expected to remain with the Seahawks, underscoring a strong sense of unity and commitment. Notably, defensive backs coach Karl Scott, the sole assistant retained from Pete Carroll's staff in 2024, has chosen to stay despite interest from other teams, including the Cardinals for their defensive coordinator position. This retention of key personnel, coupled with Macdonald's proactive search for an offensive coordinator, reflects a strategic effort to build a resilient and high-performing coaching team dedicated to the Seahawks' long-term success. The focus remains on continuity and sustained excellence, even as new leadership is integrated into the offensive scheme.