AJ Barner: "I'm Here To Win Championships" - Seahawks Draft Conference Call

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald provides insights into the Seahawks' offseason progress. He praises Leonard Williams (0:19) for his leadership and on-field impact. Macdonald emphasizes the team's focus on being tough and connected (1:24), noting significant strides in confidence and scheme understanding. He discusses the offensive line's development, particularly mentioning Grey Zabel's progress (4:17). Macdonald highlights the rookies' dedication and work ethic (5:53), and touches on various position battles, including wide receiver and cornerback. He commends Coby Bryant's intentionality and growth (8:26) and expresses excitement about the team's young talent and veteran leadership (12:27). Macdonald also discusses the quarterback competition, the versatility of Nick Emmanwori, and the growth of Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams discusses the importance of team connection and veteran presence during OTAs. He highlights the improved synergy in the team's second year under the current coaching staff (0:10). Williams emphasizes the significance of team connection over individual talent, drawing from his 11 years of NFL experience (0:35). He praises new teammate DeMarcus Lawrence for his leadership and work ethic (2:28). Williams also mentions Brandon Pili's impressive progress during OTAs (3:44) and talks about his own focus on diversifying his pass-rush moves (4:26). He commends Ernest Jones IV for his impact on the team's run defense last season (5:10). Williams shares his personal "why" for playing football, citing how it provided stability in his childhood (7:06), and reflects on his natural leadership qualities since high school (8:48).

Seahawks tackle Charles Cross shares insights on the team's offensive line and new coaching scheme. He praises rookie Grey Zabel's performance (0:11) and discusses the team's adaptation to a new offensive scheme, emphasizing the focus on running the ball and controlling the line of scrimmage (0:25). Cross expresses enthusiasm for his 5th-year option pickup (2:17) and commends the new coaching staff for their detailed approach to installing the offense (2:35). He highlights the addition of fullbacks to the offensive mix (3:12) and emphasizes the team's goals of being tough and connected, as mentioned by Head Coach Mike Macdonald (3:57). Cross also notes the importance of efficient downhill running in controlling the game and clock (4:24).

Seahawks head Coach Mike Macdonald expresses satisfaction with the team's practice, highlighting the players' effort and enthusiasm (0:00). He discusses his approach to dividing time between offense and defense during practice (0:46). Macdonald praises quarterback Sam Darnold's competitiveness and growth in the new offensive system (2:16). He emphasizes the positive impact of veteran receivers Cooper Kupp and Jaxon Smith-Njigba on the offense's development (4:05). Macdonald also commends the defense's progress and the leadership of veteran players (7:40). He discusses the team's overall buy-in to the new system and the importance of collective effort in pushing forward (10:45). He concludes by emphasizing the importance of playing "Seahawk style ball" and maintaining core principles such as ball security and physicality (13:27).

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp shares his experience adapting to a new team and offense. He discusses similarities between his previous system and the current one under offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak (0:56). Kupp praises the wide receiver group's versatility and willingness to learn all positions (1:53). He reflects on his development as a receiver, crediting various coaches throughout his career (2:42). Kupp talks about quarterback Sam Darnold's competitiveness and urgency in practice (5:57), and shares his admiration for Doug Baldwin's playing style (8:28). He commends the defense's communication and mastery of their system (9:52). Kupp also mentions Jake Bobo's skills as a receiver (10:38).

Seahawks safety Julian Love shares insights on the team's defensive progress and chemistry. He highlights improved camaraderie (0:29) and the integration of rookie Nick Emmanwori (0:42). Love discusses the versatility in the safety room (1:43) and praises Coby Bryant's competitive nature (2:24). He notes the offense's development under Klint Kubiak (4:18) and the competitive atmosphere in practice, including Sam Darnold's contributions (7:20). Love emphasizes DeMarcus Lawrence's leadership (6:38) and the importance of consistency throughout the season (8:51). He also mentions the clear messaging from head coach Mike Macdonald (9:43) and the value of instant replay boards during practice (11:19).

Seahawks special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh discusses his first year in the NFL. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and continuous improvement (0:15). Harbaugh expresses enthusiasm for the XFL-style kickoff rules, noting their effectiveness and excitement (1:37). He praises Steven Sims for his punt return abilities (3:35) and Michael Dickson for his consistent performance as a punter (4:22). Harbaugh also discusses the acquisition of returners Tory Horton and Ricky White (5:27), and reflects on the challenges of managing NFL rosters and how this knowledge impacts draft evaluations (6:34).

Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV shares insights on the team's OTAs and overall dynamics. (0:05) Jones expresses his love for the team, defense, and players, emphasizing the importance of building camaraderie early. (0:49) He discusses the significance of his new contract and the stability it brings. (1:32) Jones recalls fulfilling his childhood dream of buying a house for his mother. (3:16) He mentions overcoming a nagging knee injury from the past two seasons. (4:06) Jones praises the addition of fellow South Carolina player Nick Emmanwori. (5:34) He shares an anecdote about meeting with head coach Mike Macdonald. (6:10) Jones expresses excitement about the defense's potential with 10-11 starters returning from last season. (9:48) He emphasizes the importance of addressing small mistakes and rising to the occasion in intense moments. (11:11) Jones highlights the versatility of the defensive front, including players like Aden and D Law. (11:55) He notes the high attendance at mini camp, reflecting the team's commitment to their goal of "putting another banner up."