Sam Darnold Discusses Preparing For Week 8 vs. Bears

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 defensive tackle Leonard Williams shares his excitement about adding guard Quenton Nelson to the team while offering veteran advice to both Quenton Nelson and guard Anthony Bradford about navigating the business side of the NFL. (00:46) Drawing from his own past mid-season trades, Leonard Williams emphasizes the importance of focusing on what a player can control, such as attitude, mindset, and work ethic, during transitions to a new organization (02:04). (04:14) Looking ahead to the upcoming matchup against the Chicago Bears, Leonard Williams highlights the challenge of stopping their top-ranked, full-team rushing attack and fast-paced offense that utilizes frequent pre-snap motions (04:53). (05:25) He also praises the Seattle Seahawks' welcoming, family-oriented culture and credits the organization, including Head Coach Mike Macdonald and recent acquisitions like linebacker Ernest Jones IV, wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, and guard Quenton Nelson, for constantly "chasing edges" to win, while noting the defense's third-down mentality is to "earn the right to rush" (06:13, 07:13, 08:18).

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 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).

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp discusses the impact of adding players mid-season, specifically highlighting the addition of Quenton Nelson and how it energizes the team while forcing better communication (0:18). He praises Head Coach Mike Macdonald's direct and honest approach to difficult personnel decisions, noting the importance of truthfulness in leadership (1:59). Kupp emphasizes the significant progress shown after the bye week, with all three phases demonstrating growth and complementary football (3:01). He explains how the offense found success by narrowing their focus, doubling down on what they do well, and allowing players like Sam Darnold to play faster while still threatening down the field (5:40, 7:28). Kupp credits the collective effort of coaches and players working together through improved dialogue to create an efficient offensive system, stressing that mastering the playbook allows everyone to execute at a higher level (6:09).

Seahawks guard Quenton Nelson reflects on the bittersweet feeling of leaving Indianapolis while expressing excitement for his next chapter in Seattle and the welcoming family culture he has experienced during his first day and a half with the team. (01:32) As he transitions into Offensive Coordinator Brian Fleury's scheme, Quenton Nelson notes that he is focused on mastering the new playbook terminology with extensive support from Senior Offensive Assistant/Offensive Line John Benton, Assistant Offensive Line Quinshon Odom, and Center (C) Jalen Sundell, who stayed late into the night to answer his questions. (02:16) He also highlights how former college teammate Safety (S) Julian Love immediately reached out to welcome him, while (04:15) expressing readiness for any blocking scheme and (05:44) praising Seahawks Defensive Tackles (DT) Byron Murphy II and Leonard Williams. (07:37) Preparing to step in at left guard by Monday, Quenton Nelson credits his career durability (08:22) to a disciplined recovery routine and (10:40) his high school basketball background.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald opened his press conference by outlining the team's weekly schedule (00:00), reflecting on the offense's turnaround and identity (01:06) with emphasis on the run game, third downs, and red zone execution (02:19), and praising the defense's connected effort (03:01) while managing extra preparation days without mentally taxing the roster (03:47). He highlighted the versatility and maturity of Safety (S) Nick Emmanwori (05:22), who spends time in the defensive backs room while also working closely with Defensive Run Game Coordinator Chris Partridge and Inside Linebackers coach Zachary Orr (06:41) to handle multiple roles responsibly (07:06). Regarding injuries and roster availability, Head Coach Mike Macdonald provided updates on Tackle (T) Charles Cross's ankle injury (07:49), Wide Receiver (WR) Rashid Shaheed's positive early status (08:13), Running Back (RB) Velus Jones Jr.'s hamstring injury (14:08), and the potential return to game action for Running Back (RB) Jadarian Price and Running Back (RB) Zach Charbonnet (16:27). Finally, he emphasized coaching communication with Special Teams Coordinator Jay Harbaugh and Defensive Coordinator Aden Durde (08:55), commended Linebacker (LB) Tyrice Knight alongside starter Linebacker (LB) Drake Thomas (12:31), praised Running Back (RB) George Holani's third-down pass protection (13:34) and Defensive Tackle (DT) Byron Murphy II's interior play (14:31), and discussed expanding Wide Receiver (WR) Rashid Shaheed's impact (15:19).

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold praised the overall team performance, highlighting the defense's outstanding play throughout the night and the offense's ability to stay on the field (0:00). He emphasized the importance of getting to the line of scrimmage quickly, which was a major point of emphasis during the week, allowing the offense to read the defense and make necessary adjustments against Kansas City's strong defense and coordinator (1:03). Darnold acknowledged the need to improve on third-and-long situations while crediting the offensive execution (0:30). He particularly praised Jaxon Smith-Njigba's ability to perform against man coverage and his high football IQ (2:45). Darnold highlighted the offensive line's outstanding performance against Kansas City's front, specifically mentioning Anthony Bradford's presence and impact upon his return (4:20). He discussed the importance of putting the ball in play and letting athletes like Cooper Kupp, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and George Holani make plays after the catch, while also noting Emanuel Wilson's strong rushing performance in the second half (3:22). He explained that offensive efficiency comes from getting plays called quickly, using different cadences and counts, and mixing up the tempo to keep defenses off balance (6:15).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald opens by praising the team's resilience, execution across all three phases, and commitment to their "12 as one" philosophy while noting areas for continued improvement before facing Chicago. (01:30) He commends the defense's physicality and warrior mentality in holding the opposing offense to a single field goal, and later (04:55) highlights how the coaching staff works to maximize top defensive playmakers like Defensive Tackle Byron Murphy II, Defensive Tackle Leonard Williams, and Cornerback Devon Witherspoon. (03:05) Offensively, Head Coach Mike Macdonald discusses trusting Tight End AJ Barner on a crucial fourth-and-one conversion, and (03:19) credits Offensive Coordinator Brian Fleury and the offensive staff for strong third-down solutions and pivoting effectively after Wide Receiver Rashid Shaheed exited the game. (03:59) He also points out key effort plays and pass protection for Quarterback Sam Darnold, praising Running Back George Holani, Tight End AJ Barner, and Tackle Charles Cross for their hustle, alongside Wide Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba's touchdown reception (06:20), Guard Anthony Bradford's return (08:30), and injury updates on Tackle Charles Cross, Wide Receiver Rashid Shaheed, and Quarterback Drew Lock (07:48, 12:02).

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp discussed the Seahawks' impressive performance in their victory over the previously undefeated Chiefs, highlighting the team's exceptional third-down conversion rate of 11 for 15 (0:16). He praised Sam Darnold's command of the offense and ability to work through progressions, noting that some conversions came on Darnold's fifth read (0:24). Kupp commended Jaxon Smith-Njigba's ability to stay engaged despite facing double coverage, with Smith-Njigba recording over 200 yards in the game (1:53-2:17). The defense held the Chiefs to just 11 first downs, the fewest in a Patrick Mahomes-started game, with no red zone trips (4:06-4:08). Kupp emphasized that the victory represented the team executing Head Coach Mike Macdonald's vision of playing "Seahawks football" and focusing on their own execution rather than the opponent (6:00-6:41).

Seahawks safety Nick Emmanwori showcased his exceptional versatility in the game against Kansas City, lining up at defensive end, covering in the slot, and running downfield with one of the NFL's fastest receivers (0:11). He explained the complex preparation process throughout the week, rotating between linebacker, defensive line, and defensive back meeting rooms to master multiple positions (1:06-1:41). Emmanwori chased down Patrick Mahomes on an interception, forcing a bad throw with his speed and pressure (2:12-2:31). The defense held their opponent to just one field goal, with Emmanwori personally motivated to limit a star receiver under 100 yards, which they accomplished (3:46-3:58). He praised teammate Jaxon Smith-Njigba as "unguardable," marveling at his ability to make plays despite double teams and extra coverage (4:45-5:09).

Seahawks wide Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba reflects on the Seattle Seahawks' resilient victory against the Kansas City Chiefs, emphasizing how the team fought together after losing two straight games (00:01, 01:38). He discusses the offense's success against the Chiefs' aggressive man and press coverage, noting how he attacked the middle of the field and used motion to his advantage (00:30, 03:03, 06:22). Smith-Njigba praises Quarterback (QB) Sam Darnold for his leadership, ability to extend plays with his feet, and a crucial line-of-scrimmage check that resulted in a touchdown pass (01:22, 03:30). He also credits Offensive Coordinator Brian Fleury for putting the offense in position to read the defense and execute efficiently on third downs alongside strong protection from the offensive line (05:15, 05:48). Additionally, Smith-Njigba highlights the dominant performance of the Seahawks' defense, specifically calling Safety (S) Nick Emmanwori one of the most versatile players in the league for his pass-rushing and coverage abilities (03:57, 04:23).

Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV reflects on Head Coach Mike Macdonald's message about the team's potential and executing their jobs to secure a much-needed victory (00:04, 00:13). He praises the defense for shutting down a strong opposing offense, holding them to a single field goal, and limiting their rushing attack to minimal yards (00:28, 00:38, 01:01). After losing two consecutive games, Ernest Jones IV notes that the team remained confident and was eager to return to their style of football on Sunday while continuing to build momentum for next week (01:35, 02:00). He also highlights the impressive second-year versatility of Safety Nick Emmanwori in both rushing the passer and covering downfield, as well as the ability of Wide Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba to consistently get open against man coverage (02:15, 02:23, 02:35, 02:45). Finally, Ernest Jones IV emphasizes the importance of playing complete, complementary football alongside Quarterback Sam Darnold and the offense as they found their rhythm throughout the game (03:09, 03:18).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald opened the press conference with injury updates, announcing that Running Back Zach Charbonnet, Linebacker Chazz Surratt, and Linebacker Drake Thomas are ruled out for Sunday's game, while Safety Nick Emmanwori (hip), Linebacker Connor O'Toole, and Quarterback Drew Lock (elbow) are listed as questionable. (00:34) Head Coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that Running Back Zach Charbonnet has experienced no setbacks in his recovery, and later noted at (04:17) that Running Back Jadarian Price is progressing well with his practice window potentially opening next week, while at (05:33) he shared that Tight End Elijah Arroyo recently underwent surgery for a season-ending injury. (01:12) On the offensive front, Head Coach Mike Macdonald stated that Guard Anthony Bradford will return to play the entire game, noting at (05:09) that his return restores continuity to the starting five alongside Tackle Abraham Lucas. (03:44) Discussing the defense, Head Coach Mike Macdonald praised Linebacker Tyrice Knight for seamlessly stepping up into a larger role in the absence of Linebacker Drake Thomas and building strong chemistry with Linebacker Ernest Jones IV, before highlighting at (06:26) the leadership of Tight End AJ Barner, Tight End Eric Saubert, and Fullback Brady Russell, and concluding at (07:27) by commending Quarterback Sam Darnold and the roster for holding player-driven cross-positional meetings.

Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde discussed the defense's focus on fundamentals and limiting yards in the run game, while praising Linebacker Tyrice Knight (00:40) for playing decisively, showing up in the pass game, and tackling well. (00:58) Following the break, Durde noted that the coaching staff evaluated areas for self-improvement, specifically targeting red zone execution, third-down errors, pass-rush effectiveness, and pre- and post-snap alignments (01:12). (01:35) Looking ahead to the upcoming matchup, he emphasized the importance of understanding leverage, run fits, and pocket control on early and third downs (02:49). (03:26) Durde also explained the keys to diagnosing and defending screen passes alongside Linebacker Ernest Jones IV (04:10), while referencing Head Coach Mike Macdonald's philosophy of building the pass rush from a four-man foundation (04:57), and (05:45) highlighted the strong impact of Safety Ty Okada making tackles from the third level (06:08) alongside Safety Julian Love.

Seahawks quarterback (QB) met with media, emphasizing the offense's focus on daily consistency, sustaining drives on third down, and preparing to play decisively against a fast Kansas City Chiefs defense (00:00, 00:44, 03:49). Reflecting on quick defensive pressures from the previous game, Quarterback (QB) Sam Darnold notes the importance of protecting the football by throwing the ball away or taking a sack rather than forcing passes, while trusting his progressions and self-scouting offensive tendencies (02:02, 04:32, 06:03). He commends Running Back (RB) Zach Charbonnet for his relentless mindset and work ethic throughout his recovery from ACL surgery as he prepares to return to action (05:00, 05:15). Quarterback (QB) Sam Darnold also addresses improving pass protection communication through practice repetitions and explains how fellow Quarterback (QB) Drew Lock helped relay play calls on the field during recent crowd noise and headset issues (07:40, 08:16, 08:24). Finally, Quarterback (QB) Sam Darnold expresses complete confidence in Offensive Coordinator Brian Fleury, praising his adaptability, thorough Saturday night game-plan previews, and collaborative approach to establishing the offense's identity (03:30, 09:04, 09:36, 10:24).

Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV discusses the importance of football IQ and quick processing in the defensive system, while crediting the team's strong run defense to a collective mentality and gap-sound play up front (00:46, 02:05). (01:32) Ernest Jones IV emphasizes the need to stay disciplined against run-pass options and notes how thorough preparation from the coaching staff allows the defense to play fast and decisively (02:30). (04:28) He expresses full confidence in Quarterback Sam Darnold and the roster to bounce back, and reflects on honest conversations led by Head Coach Mike Macdonald during the mini-bye about tightening up red zone defense (05:05). (05:47) Looking ahead to Sunday night at Lumen Field, Ernest Jones IV highlights the primetime crowd noise as a major defensive weapon, praises fellow Linebacker Tyrice Knight (07:02), and touches on his recent sack streak (07:35), diagnosing screen passes (08:01), and relying on his instincts (09:01).

Seahawks safety Ty Okada expresses his excitement about returning to the field after suffering an injury during sprints heading into Week 1 (00:03, 00:15) and shares how Devon Witherspoon gave him the nickname "Ty GPT" for quickly answering questions in meetings (00:38, 03:56). Addressing the honest conversations mentioned by Head Coach Mike Macdonald and linebacker (LB) Ernest Jones IV, Okada emphasizes the secondary's focus on deeply understanding their roles to bring plays to life (01:10, 01:25). He also praises running back (RB) Zach Charbonnet's recovery from ACL surgery (01:45, 01:57) and defensive tackle (DT) Byron Murphy II's impressive season (03:20, 03:26), while explaining how attention to detail shut down Denver's offense (02:18, 02:25) and helps all 11 defenders stop screen passes (02:55, 03:01).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald opens by addressing how the defense approaches screen plays as a collective team effort (00:33) and how offenses operating under center impact run game principles alongside a reference to Running Back Zach Charbonnet's recovery timetable (03:25). Looking at Seattle's offense, Head Coach Mike Macdonald explains the balance of staying within their wide-zone wheelhouse while mixing in other run concepts (05:53), and notes that the offensive line and team have shown strong effort and attitude with room to grow in decisiveness (06:48). He also discusses his coaching philosophy for helping players improve through open communication (07:46) before confirming that Linebacker Drake Thomas will not practice today (08:35). On the defensive side, Head Coach Mike Macdonald emphasizes that stopping the run requires team-wide fundamentals like block destruction, tackling, and proper leverage (08:48), while noting that the defensive line sets the tone up front (12:36) and split-safety structures provide extra layers of defensive overlap (13:32). Finally, he stresses that starting fast offensively is a product of decisiveness and assignment alignment (09:53), and confirms that utilizing two-back personnel with Fullback Brady Russell remains on the table even with Fullback Robbie Ouzts unavailable (10:33).

Seahawks safety Julian Love discusses the upcoming defensive challenges for the Seattle Seahawks, emphasizing that an all-hands-on-deck effort is required to contain explosive opposing playmakers (00:11). To improve against the screen game and the run, safety Julian Love explains that the defense must attack blockers and leverage while defensive backs and linebackers close space and fly to the ball on both early and obvious passing downs (00:45, 01:19, 02:05). Safety Julian Love praises the physical dominance of the Seahawks' defensive interior—specifically defensive tackle Leonard Williams, defensive tackle Byron Murphy II, and nose tackle Jarran Reed—for setting the tone up front so the secondary does not have to overcommit to the box (04:40). Finally, safety Julian Love notes that the team respects former teammates who previously shared the backfield with running back Zach Charbonnet, while remaining eager to play clean, complementary football by fixing details on third-and-long and in the red zone (03:05, 08:01, 08:42, 09:35).

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp discusses how the team used its extra days for self-scouting to identify areas for improvement, noting at (00:42) that better offensive execution comes down to mastering simple details, staying consistent, and eliminating penalties. (01:35) Addressing the transition with offensive coordinator Brian Fleury and comments from head coach Mike Macdonald on team alignment, Kupp explains at (02:13) that great teams separate themselves by collaborating closely and aligning on the finest details of every play. (03:25) Regarding offensive continuity, Kupp emphasizes the importance of getting everyone on the same page with small scheme nuances and playing "12 as one" football, adding at (04:16) that the team must eliminate big negative plays to make its flashes of strong play across offense, defense, and special teams more consistent. (04:48) Kupp also praises quarterback (QB) Sam Darnold for his preparation and steady demeanor, highlighting at (05:31) Darnold's proven ability to persevere through adversity, before concluding with notes on weekend conversations with head coach Mike Macdonald (06:28), dictating offensive tempo (07:39), and focusing solely on winning this week's game (08:20).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald spoke at a press conference after the team's first day back from the break. He said the team is now "more aligned" after honest conversations with QB Sam Darnold, Offensive Passing Game Coordinator/Quarterbacks Jake Peetz, Offensive Coordinator Brian Fleury and WR Cooper Kupp (0:32, 0:55). He also talked about getting back to a Seahawk football identity, doing better at choosing and executing plays, and several injury and roster updates.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald met with media to address the team's offensive struggles, voicing strong faith in quarterback Sam Darnold and framing the turnovers as a team-wide problem the coaching staff can help solve. He outlined plans with offensive coordinator Brian Fleury to re-establish the run game, play to Darnold's strengths outside the pocket, and avoid obvious passing downs, while also praising his defensive staff's in-game adjustments. Macdonald provided injury and lineup updates, rejected singling out any one player or unit, and described a sense of urgency and honest self-evaluation heading into the weekend.

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold met with the media following the Seahawks' loss to Denver and took full ownership of the defeat, saying there was "no way to sugarcoat it" and that the offense can't turn the ball over (0:01). He broke down both of his interceptions, credited Denver's pass rush, and said the turnovers weren't fair to a defense and special teams unit that are playing well. At 3-3, Darnold said "there's a lot of football left" and that he has to be better, including getting the ball out faster to cut down on sacks.

Seahawks defensive tackle Leonard Williams spoke after another narrow Seahawks loss, saying the team put itself in position to win and simply has to finish (0:04, 0:23). He addressed the frustration of three losses by a combined eight points, the defense's second-half turnaround, and where Seattle stands at 3-3 (0:55, 1:23, 1:52). Williams also discussed his leadership role and his long-standing relationship with quarterback Sam Darnold, expressing full confidence that Darnold will get out of his current stretch (1:52, 2:45).