Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald is spending the early portion of the offseason reflecting on his debut season. Macdonald has already overseen one big-time staff change, relieving offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb of his duties. The Seahawks are now searching for their next offensive play caller.
A similar change won’t be occurring on the defensive side of the ball. Macdonald, who joined Seattle after serving as the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive play caller, plans to continue calling plays next season, he recently told reporters. Macdonald rightfully maintains faith in his ability to oversee Seattle’s defense, with assistance from his coordinator Aden Durde.
Macdonald said he plans to continue calling defensive plays next season. When he was hired, he said he’d call plays until he felt comfortable handing those duties off to his coordinator. Macdonald’s defense finished ninth-best in points allowed and 14th in yards allowed.
— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) January 7, 2025
Seattle’s defense was quite effective under Macdonald’s leadership this season. The Seahawks concluded the campaign allowing an 12th-best 21.6 points per contest. They ranked 11th-best against the pass (211.9/game) and a more middling 16th versus the run (120.8/game). Macdonald’s run defense improved once Ernest Jones IV was acquired at off-ball linebacker.
Like it was in Baltimore, Macdonald’s defense was especially effective rushing the passer. The Seahawks tied for eighth-best in sacks (45) throughout 2024, applying consistent pressure on opposing backfields. There’s no reason for Macdonald to forfeit play-calling duties next season. He’ll continue to oversee a stellar defense in 2025.
