Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald is searching for his next offensive coordinator after firing Ryan Grubb one day after the season. Macdonald cited differences in offensive philosophies as the reason for the change. So far, three potential replacements have emerged. The Seahawks will be interviewing Detroit Lions offensive line coach Hank Fraley, former Chicago Bears interim head coach Thomas Brown, and current New Orleans offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.
It’s possible more candidates will emerge before the Seahawks make a final decision. Understanding the philosophical differences that emerged between Macdonald and Grubb, we’ve ranked the present three candidates through the eyes of Macdonald.
Hank Fraley
Grubb’s failure to consistently establish an effective running game was among the main philosophical differences between he and Macdonald. That wouldn’t be an issue under Fraley, a hard-nosed offensive line coach who also played in the trenches professionally for 11 campaigns.
Fraley has never been a coordinator at any level, but his offensive line is among the best-performing units in the league, an area the Seahawks need to desperately improve this offseason. The Lions field a highly explosive one-two punch at running back in Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Fraley has studied under Dan Campbell in Detroit.
Klint Kubiak
Kubiak is currently the coordinator for the Saints, but they’re searching for a new head coach. Whoever is appointed may prefer to establish his own coordinator. That makes Kubiak a realistic candidate in Seattle.
Kubiak is the son of Super Bowl winning coach Gary Kubiak. He’s well-known in the NFC West after spending the 2023 campaign as the San Francisco 49ers’ passing game coordinator. The Saints; offense started 2024 exceptionally hot, but got significantly weaker as the season progressed and injuries began mounting.
Thomas Brown
Thomas Brown is a surprising candidate. He once had a red-hot reputation under Sean McVay, but has since struggled to build on that momentum. His stints with the Carolina Panthers and Bears went poorly.
Brown is attempting to rehabilitate his reputation after landing in poor destinations and coaching spots. His ability to explain his situations to Macdonald will help determine his success in the interview process. Based on his recent resume, Brown would be a disappointing hire.
