Mike Macdonald: "I'm Really Excited For Our Group This Year"

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald met with media at the NFL Annual League Meeting to discuss the team heading into the 2026 season, how the new coaching staff has adjusted so far, the team's mindset heading into the season as the reigning Super Bowl champs and more.

Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, head coach Mike Macdonald and president of football operations/general manager John Schneider met with media on Wednesday afternoon to discuss Jaxon's multi-year contract extension.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discusses the team's recent Super Bowl victory and plans for the upcoming season. He emphasizes the importance of evolving and not becoming complacent (16:39). He discusses the team's defensive strategy, noting their preference for nickel formations (7:16). Macdonald also touches on offensive changes, mentioning Brian Fleury's role in developing a new offensive approach (4:04). He stresses the importance of maintaining team culture and adapting to new challenges as Super Bowl champions (13:47). Macdonald addresses the upcoming NFL Combine and the importance of getting to know potential draft picks (9:21). He also discusses the significance of versatile defensive players like Nick Emmanwori in their defensive scheme (10:08).

Seahawks general manager/president of football operations John Schneider discusses the team's approach to the NFL Draft and free agency. He emphasizes the importance of player fit, relationships, and team culture (0:00). Schneider praises the rookie class and scouting department for their work in the previous draft (0:27). He mentions the challenge of maintaining consistency with coaching staff, especially on offense with a defensive-minded head coach (4:18). Schneider highlights the team's strong culture and the players' commitment to each other (16:15). He also discusses the evaluation process for transfer portal players (8:02) and the importance of the NFL Combine for medical assessments and interviews (14:25). Schneider mentions specific players like Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet (9:07, 15:32).

The Seattle Seahawks introduced Brian Fleury as their new offensive coordinator. Head Coach Mike Macdonald highlighted Fleury's alignment with the team's philosophy and culture. Fleury, coming from the San Francisco 49ers, emphasized continuity and his vision for an aggressive, fast, and violent offense. He discussed his diverse coaching background, including defensive experience, and how it shapes his offensive approach. Fleury plans to maintain much of last year's successful offense while supplementing it with new ideas. The Seahawks are still finalizing their coaching staff, with some roles evolving. Fleury expressed excitement about working with the talented roster and praised the visible culture on game film. Macdonald emphasized the importance of the process in selecting Fleury and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the offense.

Running back Kenneth Walker III speaks to media following the Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl LX victory.

Head coach Mike Macdonald speaks to media Monday following the Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl LX victory.

Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV spoke to media at the podium after winning the Super Bowl LX.

Seahawks wide receiver spoke to media at the podium after winning Super Bowl LX.

Seahawks kicker Jason Myers spoke to media at the podium after winning the Super Bowl LX.

Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde spoke to media at the podium after winning the Super Bowl LX.

Seahawks punter Michael Dickson spoke to media at the podium after winning Super Bowl LX.

Seahawks safety Devon Witherspoon spoke to media at the podium after winning the Super Bowl LX.

Seahawks safety Julian Love spoke to media at the podium after winning Super Bowl LX.

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold spoke to media following the 29-13 win vs. the New England Patriots.

Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III spoke to media at the podium after winning the Super Bowl LX MVP.

Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon shares insights on the team's defense and Super Bowl preparations. He highlights the strong connection within the defense (0:18) and credits Coach Mike Macdonald for laying a solid foundation (9:24). Witherspoon mentions the team's unique "Dark Side" identity (7:54) and discusses the balance between veteran experience and youthful energy on the defensive line, specifically mentioning DeMarcus Lawrence and Leonard Williams (10:33). He emphasizes the importance of accountability among teammates (13:06) and expresses excitement about playing in the Super Bowl while maintaining focus on winning the game (11:59). Witherspoon also praises the coach's trust in players' input during meetings (11:19).

Jaxon Smith-Njigba, wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, shares insights on Super Bowl preparation and team dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of staying focused during Super Bowl week (0:08). Smith-Njigba discusses his relationship with teammate Devon Witherspoon, highlighting their shared passion for football and mutual respect (2:26, 3:28). He reflects on his journey from being drafted to playing in the Super Bowl, crediting the team's ability to win games as their strongest attribute (11:06). Smith-Njigba also praises quarterback Sam Darnold's leadership and adaptability (16:51), and expresses appreciation for the special bond within the team as they prepare for the big game (18:48). He mentions his respect for Christian Gonzalez's skills as a cornerback (12:56) and discusses the challenges of facing disguised coverages in the NFL (15:06).

Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV shares insights on the team's defense and Super Bowl preparation. (0:17) He describes their style as relentless and dominant, avoiding direct comparisons to the Legion of Boom. (1:16) Jones prioritizes team success over individual accolades. (4:01) He praises head coach Mike Macdonald's in-game adjustments and connection with players. (7:49) Jones advises teammates to focus on their usual game plan despite the extended halftime. (9:45) He expresses confidence in his teammates and the game plan. (13:34) Jones emphasizes his excitement to play in the Super Bowl with his team. (15:20) He highlights the team culture of loving each other and being focused when necessary. (16:04) Jones stresses the interdependence of different defensive units for the team's success.

Seahawks safety Nick Emmanwori addresses his recent ankle injury during practice (0:01) but expresses confidence in playing in the upcoming Super Bowl (0:22). He discusses his nomination for Defensive Rookie of the Year (1:30) and praises teammate Jaxon Smith-Njigba for Offensive Player of the Year consideration (1:57). Emmanwori reflects on his journey from college to the NFL (6:09) and his draft experience with the Seahawks (7:53). He also talks about his versatility as a player, comparing his style to Kyle Hamilton and Derwin James (11:49). Despite the injury setback, Emmanwori remains focused and ready for the Super Bowl (15:14).

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold discusses his journey to the Super Bowl and personal growth. He credits his time with the San Francisco 49ers (0:25) for improving his understanding of offensive schemes and defenses. Darnold emphasizes the importance of internal motivation and learning from past experiences in New York and Carolina (4:08). He highlights the strong team chemistry, particularly with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba (5:15). Darnold expresses respect for opposing quarterback Drake May and reflects on the influence of his parents, especially his father's work ethic (6:45). He also mentions the impact of mentor Josh McCown on his career development (9:05). Darnold discusses the evolution of defensive strategies in the NFL and the importance of adapting as a quarterback (12:22).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald provides insights into the Seahawks' preparation for the Super Bowl. He addresses Nick Emmanwori's ankle injury (0:00), emphasizing a cautious approach. Macdonald discusses the team's practice philosophy (0:59), highlighting the balance between intensity and player health. He reflects on sacrifices made, particularly by his wife (2:05). Macdonald praises the team's tackling prowess (4:25), crediting Chris Partridge for developing their tackling curriculum. He emphasizes the strong connection between assistant coaches and players (6:52) and commends Special Teams Coordinator Jay Harbaugh (8:03). Macdonald offers advice to young coaches aspiring to advance in their careers (10:59) and discusses the importance of the practice squad, which they call the "ready squad" (13:08). He also mentions the value of mentorship from former Seahawks players (14:54) and the significance of team diversity (15:46).

Seahawks tight end AJ Barner shares insights on preparing for the Super Bowl against the New England Patriots. He emphasizes the team's physical play style, improved offensive line performance, and the challenges posed by the Patriots' versatile defense. Barner expresses confidence in the Seahawks' ability to win and highlights the importance of team cohesion. He also discusses his personal growth, the influence of experienced teammates like Cooper Kupp and Sam Darnold, and his excitement to showcase his skills on the national stage. Barner mentions the support from Seahawks fans (the 12s) and his family, particularly his mother, as key motivators.

DeMarcus Lawrence, linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks, shares insights on preparing for the Super Bowl and reflects on his NFL career. (0:00) Lawrence emphasizes his tenacity, energy, and communication skills on the field. (1:34) He discusses his relationship with Aden Durde and how it led to joining the Seahawks. (2:04) Lawrence praises head coach Mike Macdonald's relationship with players and diverse play-calling. (8:29) He explains the origin of the defense's "Dark Side" nickname. (11:13) Lawrence commends rookie Nick Emmanwori's versatility and impact. (14:04) He reflects on his journey to the Super Bowl and the importance of trusting in one's dreams. (17:17) Lawrence balances his excitement for the Super Bowl with his role as a father, expecting his sixth child.

Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba shares insights on the team's preparation for the upcoming Super Bowl. He emphasizes the strong connection with quarterback Sam Darnold (0:05) and acknowledges the challenge posed by the Patriots' defense (0:29). Smith-Njigba highlights the importance of team cohesion, mentioning a pre-season trip to Green Bay as a defining moment (10:23). He discusses his approach to route-running (6:45) and the benefits of practicing against the Seahawks' tough defense (14:36). Smith-Njigba also touches on the impact of playing alongside Cooper Kupp (18:25) and maintains a focus on the team's process over individual accolades (21:45). He expresses confidence in the team's readiness for the game while emphasizing the importance of preparation and staying focused on their game plan.