Jim Mora’s stay as head coach of the Seahawks is over – after only one season.
The club announced this morning that Mora has been relieved of his duties after the Seahawks went 5-11 in his only season as coach.
“We’ve made a tough decision today,” said CEO Tod Leiweke. “It became apparent after conducting an extensive internal audit, that a new direction was needed to provide an opportunity for the organization to be successful. Today’s decision, while difficult, is part of the process in building a franchise with a new vision in 2010.”
“Jim is truly a stand-up man, who gave his full effort to our franchise. We thank Jim and his family for their commitment to our community and for their contribution to the Seahawks.”
Mora became head coach this season after Mike Holmgren stepped down following the 2008 season, and a 4-12 record. Mora originally joined the club in 2007 as defensive backs coach.
Mora previously had been head coach of the Atlanta Falcons (2004-06) and prior to that worked in the NFL for the San Francisco 49ers, New Orleans Saints and San Diego Chargers.
Coaching the Seahawks had been a destination job for Mora, who went to Interlake High School in Bellevue and the University of Washington while his father was coaching for the Seahawks and Huskies.
During his postseason news conference on Wednesday, Mora said, “I feel a tremendous sense of obligation not only to this organization, but to the people in this city – many who are friends. A tremendous sense of obligation to them – unlike probably any new coach in the league who goes to a city where he doesn’t have roots. I’ve made it known that this is where I plan on living for the rest of my life. And I want to be able to walk around this city and feel proud of the work I did for the Seattle Seahawks.”
