Seahawks to Hire Mike Macdonald as Head Coach

The Seattle Seahawks are set to make a significant change in their coaching staff as they have reached an agreement with Mike Macdonald to become their next head coach, sources have informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Macdonald, who has been the defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, will join the Seahawks on a six-year contract.

Macdonald’s hiring will make him the youngest head coach in the NFL, bringing with him a reputation as one of the league’s brightest defensive minds. Under his guidance, the Ravens’ defense led the league in points allowed, sacks, and takeaways during the 2023 season.

The Seahawks leadership, including general manager John Schneider, held a second interview with Macdonald on Wednesday, ultimately deciding to hire him for the head coaching position. Macdonald was one of the most sought-after candidates this year, having interviewed with multiple teams.

Replacing the 72-year-old Pete Carroll, Macdonald’s appointment will make him the NFL’s youngest head coach at just 36 years old. He will be taking over a team that has a rich history, having won one Super Bowl title and making numerous playoff appearances under Carroll.

The Ravens, on the other hand, will now have to find a replacement for Macdonald as their defensive coordinator. They have several options available from their current coaching staff, including Anthony Weaver, Dennard Wilson, Zachary Orr, and Chris Hewitt, all of whom have interviewed for similar positions with other NFL teams this offseason.

Macdonald’s journey to the NFL started as a coaching intern with the Ravens in 2014. He then spent seven seasons working his way up the coaching ranks before being hired as the University of Michigan‘s defensive coordinator in 2021. However, he returned to Baltimore in 2022 to take over as the team’s defensive coordinator.

Throughout his time with the Ravens, Macdonald has been highly regarded by players and fellow coaches. C.J. Mosley, a Pro Bowl linebacker for the team, spoke highly of Macdonald’s dedication and caring nature towards players, calling him the best candidate for any team looking for a head coach.

Macdonald, who was born in Boston and graduated from the University of Georgia, will now embark on a new chapter in his coaching career as the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks.