Head Coach Mike Macdonald Gives Final Updates Ahead Of Week 5 vs. Buccaneers

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald provided injury updates, confirming that Devon Witherspoon, Julian Love, and Josh Jones are out for the upcoming game (0:22). Nick Emmanwori is expected to play (4:06). Macdonald discussed the roles of Jared Ivey and Mike Morris, emphasizing their versatility on special teams and defense (1:13). He expressed excitement about the return of former players for an event (2:36) and praised Coby Bryant's performance in the secondary (5:15). Macdonald also addressed the impact of new kicking rules on game strategy (7:27) and emphasized the importance of special teams in recent games (8:20). The coach discussed the team's focus on the process for player development, particularly mentioning Riq Woolen (5:59). He also commented on Jason Myers' kicking performance and its impact on field position (8:03).

Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak discusses the team's intense preparation for NFL games. He highlights Head Coach Mike Macdonald's emphasis on situational practice (0:41), praising his detailed approach to preparing players and coaches for various scenarios. Kubiak addresses the team's improved running game against Arizona (2:41) and the challenges posed by Tampa Bay's strong defense (2:58). He also talks about quarterback Sam Darnold's decision-making abilities (4:02) and the importance of clear, concise play-calling (5:15). Kubiak emphasizes the strong connection within the coaching staff (6:12) and the need to adapt communication styles to different quarterbacks (7:25). He mentions the team's focus on improving their run game targeting (3:31) and discusses the complexity of pre-snap decisions in run plays (8:39).

Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde reflects on the team's recent break and ongoing improvement. He praises the defense's physicality and highlights players like Coby Bryant and Ernest Jones for their strong performances. Durde discusses the challenge of containing mobile quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield (0:17) and emphasizes the importance of competition within the team (2:57). He also mentions the development of players such as Drake Thomas (5:18) and Mike Morris (9:48), who are maximizing their playing time. Durde touches on the team's pass rush strategies and the balance between pressuring quarterbacks and maintaining containment (5:41). He notes the improvement in Riq Woolen's play (4:13) and praises Julian Love's contributions, despite some missed interception opportunities (9:57).

Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams discusses his evolving approach to recovery and longevity in the NFL. He emphasizes the importance of hydrotherapy and hyperbaric chamber treatments (0:15, 0:46). Williams reflects on his career goals (2:56). He highlights the significance of mentoring younger players like Byron Murphy II and Grey Zabel (3:32, 6:38). Williams also shares insights on the team's defensive strategies against quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield (5:13) and the balance between individual stats and team success (5:56). He mentions his interactions with other players, including Charles Cross, and his focus on game preparation despite the presence of NFL legends during a celebration week (7:16, 8:18).

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold discusses the upcoming game against Tampa Bay (0:03). He reflects on his relationship with Baker Mayfield, praising Mayfield's resilience and competitiveness (0:48, 1:31). Darnold explains his approach to being decisive in the pocket (2:48) and analyzes Tampa Bay's defensive scheme (3:25). He talks about his experience with the Jets (6:13) and the use of wristband play sheets (7:20). Darnold discusses the team's offensive performance and the importance of continuous improvement (9:29). He also praises teammate Jaxon Smith-Njigba's dedication and team-first attitude (10:36, 11:36).

Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba discusses the upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and reflects on his NFL journey. Smith-Njigba explains his approach to game preparation at (1:37), focusing on defensive coverage statistics. He attributes his success as a receiver to willpower and execution (2:48). The conversation touches on his performance in recent games, including a crucial back-shoulder catch (4:48). Smith-Njigba also highlights the importance of the two-tight end set in the Seahawks' offense (7:13) and shares insights learned from veteran receiver Cooper Kupp (5:15). He mentions teammates Zach Charbonnet, Kenneth Walker III, and AJ Barner, emphasizing the team's offensive threats.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald expresses excitement for the upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, praising their defensive principles and personnel (0:54). He discusses maintaining their offensive strategy despite Tampa's strong run defense (1:21). Macdonald highlights quarterback Baker Mayfield's skills, particularly in extended plays (4:27). He addresses the team's success in intercepting opposing quarterbacks, attributing it to aggressive and physical play (7:03). Macdonald emphasizes the synergy and unselfishness of the defensive front, particularly mentioning Leonard Williams' impact (7:46). He provides an update on DeMarcus Lawrence's status, describing it as day-to-day (9:18). Macdonald also discusses the challenges of defending against Cover 0 defenses (9:34).

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp shared insights on the team's performance and quarterback development. (0:26) Kupp mentioned the team's mini-bye and players' eagerness to return to work. (1:04) He discussed similarities between the Buccaneers' defense and what the Seahawks face in practice. (2:14) Kupp praised Baker Mayfield's performance with the Rams in 2022, highlighting his leadership and competitiveness. (3:06) He commended Sam Darnold's pocket presence and ability to overcome past challenges. (5:22) Kupp emphasized the effectiveness of their 12-personnel offense and the importance of execution. (6:02) He stressed the need for patience in developing quarterbacks, allowing them to learn from mistakes. Kupp also discussed the importance of sudden change drills in practice and his experience with new play-caller Klint Kubiak.