Sam Darnold: "There's Always Room To Grow And Continue To Learn"

Seahawks quarterback (QB) Sam Darnold reflects on the offensive struggles in Week 8, noting that the unit could not find a consistent rhythm and that he missed an early third-down opportunity to Wide Receiver (WR) Jaxon Smith-Njigba. (00:32) Darnold emphasizes that improving first- and second-down efficiency is his top priority to help third-down and red-zone execution fall into place, while (00:55) addressing points by Head Coach Mike Macdonald and Offensive Coordinator Brian Fleury about getting the ball out quicker by (01:08) being more decisive through his progressions. (01:39) He also notes that opposing defenses have focused on limiting scramble plays, requiring him to buy more time outside the pocket for his playmakers to get open downfield. (02:16) Evaluating offensive adjustments with Running Back (RB) Jadarian Price, Running Back (RB) Zach Charbonnet, Guard (G) Quenton Nelson, and Guard (G) Grey Zabel, Darnold praises their practice preparation while taking accountability for game-day execution and (03:03) highlighting his growing relationship with Offensive Coordinator Brian Fleury ahead of facing the Cardinals.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald credited the Bears for winning in all three phases of the game and emphasized the need for the Seahawks to regroup, improve their plans, and prepare for a short week ahead. (01:25) Addressing concerns with the run game and running back rotation following changes along the offensive line, Head Coach Mike Macdonald stated the team will stay together and focus on finding solutions moving forward. (02:09) When discussing a question involving Offensive Coordinator Brian Fleury and Quarterback Sam Darnold getting the ball out quicker, (02:22) he noted they want to encourage Quarterback Sam Darnold to use his athleticism while coaching better early-down efficiency so passes can be thrown on time. (03:32) He also highlighted the need to improve kickoff return timing on special teams and (04:04) stressed that better offensive execution and focus will allow the ball to be distributed more evenly beyond Wide Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. (05:19) Finally, Head Coach Mike Macdonald shared postgame injury updates, noting that the running backs came out of the game okay while Defensive Tackle Leonard Williams suffered a stinger and Linebacker Connor O'Toole has a foot injury.

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp assesses the Seattle Seahawks' offensive performance against the Bears, noting that the unit had too many three-and-outs and short drives and must execute better to keep the ball moving forward (00:14). Addressing Quarterback Sam Darnold's off-schedule plays, Kupp praises Darnold as a dynamic quarterback outside the pocket and emphasizes that receivers need to distribute the field better to get open when he extends plays (01:12). He also credits the opposing secondary's game plan for disguising coverages and playing aggressively with their safeties in tandem with upfront pressure, stressing that the offense must adjust and make plays (01:57). Looking ahead to a short week of preparation before facing Arizona at Lumen Field, Kupp states that the team cannot gloss over its mistakes and must review the film to make corrections and grow (02:41). Finally, Kupp highlights Wide Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba as one of the best receivers in the league who naturally commands a high target share, adding that the rest of the offense must compete without the ball and capitalize when opportunities come their way (03:35).

Seahawks safety Julian Love addressed the team's disappointing performance, acknowledging a "disconcerted effort" and lack of complementary football (0:19). He highlighted critical defensive breakdowns, particularly a 40-yard screen play on third-and-nine that killed momentum (0:52, 4:56), and emphasized the defense's poor red zone efficiency that needs immediate improvement (1:09). Love praised the team's run defense against a strong rushing team but noted that open field throws made things too easy for the opposing quarterback (1:15). He described the opposing quarterback as confident with a strong arm and swagger (2:10). Despite the frustration of being 4-4, Love expressed optimism that the team is still finding its identity and believes once they catch their stride, they'll be tough to stop, emphasizing the need for better execution in critical situations and improved third-down efficiency (3:32, 4:36). He acknowledged a costly penalty on a kickoff that led to a pivotal third-and-nine screen play, which he identified as a game-changing moment that shifted momentum away from the team (2:42, 5:02).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald addressed the media regarding several roster changes and player updates ahead of the upcoming game. At (0:21), Macdonald discussed the offensive line adjustments, noting that Quenton Nelson has been integrated into the mix and the team has done a good job with the transition. At (0:58), he confirmed there is a plan for Zach Charbonnet's utilization in the game, while decisions regarding other roster moves would be made on Monday. At (2:20), Macdonald provided an update on Rashid Shaheed, stating he is progressing well but won't be available for this game. At (4:47), he praised Nelson's poise and confidence in handling the transition to the team. At (5:18), Macdonald confirmed Josh Jones will play left tackle, highlighting his importance to the team and his strong performance when filling in last season. At (6:59), he announced Drake Thomas will start the game, while Tyrice Knight has also played well. At (8:14), he gave special recognition to Charbonnet's remarkable work ethic in returning from injury on an accelerated timetable, emphasizing his status as a three-down back who excels in pass protection, route running, and all rushing situations.

Seahawks defensive tackle Byron Murphy II discusses the addition of Guard Quenton Nelson to the roster and the upcoming challenge against Chicago's league-leading rushing attack. (0:12) Murphy praises Nelson's All-Pro resume and ability to create problems in both the run and passing game, noting their battles when facing the Colts last year. (1:24) He explains how competing daily with Nelson and asking questions helps improve his technique. (2:28) Murphy expresses excitement about the front office adding impact players mid-season, saying it uplifts the locker room and adds another piece to the puzzle. (2:52) He welcomes the challenge of facing the league's leading rusher and emphasizes the importance of being physical, keeping running backs contained, and playing great team defense. (4:20) Reflecting on the Chiefs game, Murphy credits the defense's success to keeping the running back in the phone booth, being physical upfront, and keeping linebackers free to make plays.

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold opens by addressing the upcoming challenge against Chicago before sharing (00:18) his top choice for Halloween candy. (00:58) Darnold praises the addition of veteran Guard Quenton Nelson to the offensive line and expresses confidence at (02:16) and (02:32) that the unit will be ready for Monday night despite lineup adjustments involving Nelson, Tackle Charles Cross, and Guard Grey Zabel. (01:51) Speaking on third-down efficiency and what makes a healthy offense at (02:51), Darnold emphasizes playing fast, communicating with the skill players and offensive line, and staying efficient on first and second downs to keep third downs manageable. (03:39) Following comments from Wide Receiver Cooper Kupp about narrowing the offensive focus over the mini-bye, Darnold explains at (03:49) and (04:30) that executing familiar concepts and varying cadences keeps opposing defenses on their heels, referencing Head Coach Mike Macdonald's philosophy on defensive aggression. (05:44) Darnold also notes the need to improve red-zone execution and discusses at (08:26) how he is working to connect on more deep opportunities with Wide Receiver Rashid Shaheed while utilizing Shaheed's effectiveness on short and intermediate routes. (09:09) Finally, when asked about Head Coach Mike Macdonald's post-game routine, Darnold shares at (09:20) that he watches game film on the plane after away games and waits until the next morning to review film after home games.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald opens the press conference by expressing excitement over acquiring guard Quenton Nelson while praising the offensive line for playing its best game of the season. (01:45) Head Coach Mike Macdonald highlights guard Quenton Nelson's physicality, relentless play style, and pulling ability (09:11), confirming at (03:13) that guard Quenton Nelson will play left guard while guard Grey Zabel slides to right guard and guard Anthony Bradford remains ready in a supporting role (05:56). (04:50) Providing practice and injury updates, Head Coach Mike Macdonald states that tackle Charles Cross, wide receiver Rashid Shaheed (07:01), and running back Velus Jones Jr. (19:09) will not practice today, while running back Jadarian Price (10:40), linebacker Drake Thomas (18:58), and running back Zach Charbonnet (19:04) are progressing in practice. (07:24) Previewing the upcoming opponent, Head Coach Mike Macdonald emphasizes preparing for their strong rushing attack (18:07), utilizing defensive tackle Byron Murphy II on pass rushes (14:44), and integrating mid-season trade acquisitions like guard Quenton Nelson, linebacker Ernest Jones IV, wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, and defensive tackle Leonard Williams (16:53) to move the needle for the team (20:18).