Seattle Seahawks’ New Head Coach Mike Macdonald Earns High Praise from Franchise Legend
Key Position Battles to Watch in Second Preseason Game
Mike Macdonald, the new head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, received a strong endorsement from one of the franchise’s legendary quarterbacks.
Former three-time Pro Bowl quarterback Matt Hasselbeck attended Thursday’s joint practice in Nashville between the Seahawks and the Tennessee Titans. Speaking on Seattle Sports’ Brock and Salk on Friday, Hasselbeck shared that he met Macdonald for the first time on Thursday and was impressed by the 37-year-old coach’s approach and demeanor.
“He’s a first-time head coach,” Hasselbeck said. “This is the first time this coaching staff has worked together. They’re on the road for four or five days in Nashville, which isn’t easy. I really appreciated his organized approach. He’s not too high or too low.”
During his chat with Macdonald, Hasselbeck noted the new NFL head coach’s intense focus on areas needing improvement.
“I mentioned a few things that impressed me,” Hasselbeck said. “And he replied, ‘We have a lot of work to do.’ Even though the preseason opener against the Chargers went well in many aspects, he’s focused on improving every detail, from pregame to halftime.”
“He’s enthusiastic about their strengths and aware of where they need to improve.”
Hasselbeck then likened Macdonald to the defensive equivalent of Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay. The 38-year-old McVay is renowned as one of the top offensive minds in the NFL, while Macdonald has swiftly gained a reputation as a leading defensive strategist after his tenure as the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive coordinator.
“He gives off a young defensive Sean McVay vibe,” Hasselbeck said. “Probably less caffeinated than McVay, but there’s something special there. You can tell he has it.”
The Seahawks hired Macdonald this past January after making the surprising decision to part ways with longtime head coach Pete Carroll, who led Seattle to its greatest achievements during his 14 legendary seasons.
Despite the changes under Macdonald, Hasselbeck believes some of Carroll’s influence remains, particularly the competitive spirit and boundless energy that were hallmarks of Carroll’s tenure.
“I think Pete’s fingerprints are still on it,” said Hasselbeck, who helped deliver Carroll’s first playoff win with the Seahawks in 2010. “The joyful energy, especially on defense, and the confidence on offense – that competitiveness is classic Pete Carroll.
“You still see that identity, but there’s a fresh approach now.”
