With Pete Carroll’s long tenure as head coach coming to an end, the Seattle Seahawks have embraced a new era under Mike Macdonald. As the team navigates this transition, it’s evident that Macdonald’s coaching style marks a distinct shift from his predecessor’s approach. Early reactions from players suggest they are adjusting well to these changes.
For 14 years, Pete Carroll shaped the Seahawks with a focus on competition, positive reinforcement, and strong personal connections with his players. Carroll’s departure inevitably led to a cultural shift within the organization. As the team progresses through the offseason and training camp, players are becoming familiar with Macdonald’s coaching philosophy and expectations.
Defensive lineman Leonard Williams, who joined the Seahawks midway through last season from the New York Giants, shared his insights on Macdonald’s approach. “I’m learning [Macdonald] has a very military-like mindset. There’s this running joke about saying ‘Hoo-ah’ when he speaks, which is an Army reference. But I think he does a great job holding guys accountable, which is what we need right now,” Williams explained. “We have many new faces and a new staff, so we’re in the process of creating a new identity. To achieve that, we need to set high standards and ensure everyone meets them.”
Williams, though not as long-tenured with Carroll as players like Tyler Lockett, Jarran Reed, or DK Metcalf, had enough exposure to appreciate the shift in leadership style. The departure of a long-time coach often causes a ripple effect throughout the organization. Macdonald’s arrival brought noticeable changes at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center (VMAC), including alterations that some fans and media have questioned.
As a first-time head coach, Macdonald seems intent on establishing a fresh start. This includes respecting the franchise’s legacy while crafting his own. The adjustments may seem small, such as wearing game-like jerseys during practice, but they reflect a broader strategy to instill a new culture. Lockett, the longest-serving current Seahawk, acknowledged the differences in the team’s environment under Macdonald. “It’s a bit different. We’re still adapting to what it’s going to be like, but overall, it feels different,” Lockett said. “We just need to keep adjusting and learning from each other. Practices have been going well so far.”
Macdonald’s “military mindset” became evident during the team’s visit to Joint Base Lewis-McChord in June and a training camp appearance by the Blue Angels. Williams noted that these experiences, along with Macdonald’s response to them, have inspired the team. “Macdonald was really moved by what he heard, and the team took those lessons to heart,” Williams said. “We’re seeing parallels between military discipline and football, which has been impactful.”
Accountability has emerged as a key theme in Macdonald’s coaching, with players frequently mentioning it during training camp. Although Carroll also emphasized accountability, Macdonald’s methods differ. His approach includes a motto of “make it right,” where mistakes on the field are countered with corrective actions, like making a crucial play in response to a mistake. “On the field, if you jump offsides, you need to make it right by making a sack or a tackle for loss,” Williams added. “It’s these small ways we’re trying to ensure everyone is held accountable.”
As Mike Macdonald begins his tenure with the Seattle Seahawks, the team is clearly adapting to his new approach. While the transition from Carroll’s era comes with its challenges, the early signs suggest that Macdonald’s fresh perspective is being well received by the players.