Best of Michael Bennett Thursday Press Conference

In his end-of-season press conference, Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald reflected on his first year and outlined plans for the future. Key points included: (0:03) Macdonald discussed the decision to move on from offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, citing a need for better alignment with his vision for a physical, complementary offense. (4:46) He emphasized the growth and development of young players like Byron Murphy II and Christian Haynes. (6:56) Macdonald praised the team's 7-1 road record but stressed the need to improve their home performance. (18:58) He expressed confidence in Geno Smith as the starting quarterback going forward. (24:53) Regarding the defense, Macdonald highlighted the need for consistency and a thorough offseason process to reach their potential. (27:36) On hiring a new offensive coordinator, Macdonald said they are balancing efficiency with thoroughness in their search.

Tyler Lockett, wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, shares his thoughts after the final game of the season. He begins by praising the equipment and athletic training staff (0:01), emphasizing their dedication. Lockett discusses the emotional aspect of potentially playing his last game for the Seahawks (1:10), though he plans to continue his career. He mentions tying a record with teammate Jaxon Smith-Njigba (7:00) and commends quarterback Geno Smith's performance (7:44). Lockett also evaluates head coach Mike Macdonald's first season, highlighting the team's unexpected 10-win achievement (5:36). He concludes by expressing appreciation for the team's unity and commitment throughout the season (8:09), emphasizing the importance of players staying "bought in" during challenging times.

Geno Smith, quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, discusses the team's 2024 season and future outlook. Despite not making the playoffs, Smith expresses pride in the team's 10-win season and their ability to finish strong (0:11). He praises head coach Mike Macdonald's leadership in his first year (4:27) and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb's development (7:50). Smith highlights the performances of teammates like Noah Fant, AJ Barner, and Jake Bobo (7:02), while also emphasizing the importance of Tyler Lockett to the franchise (9:40). Looking ahead, Smith is optimistic about the team's future, expressing confidence in the young players and the organization's direction (3:58). He also mentions his career-high in touchdown passes but emphasizes that winning games is the most important aspect (1:46).

In the post-game press conference, Seahawks Head Coach Mike Macdonald discusses the team's 10th win of the season (0:00). He praises the team's resilience and ability to adapt, highlighting performances from players like Geno Smith, Kenny McIntosh, and Jason Myers (1:05, 5:46, 6:18). Macdonald emphasizes the growth and evolution of the team throughout the season, particularly noting their strong road and division records (2:55). He expresses excitement for the future, viewing this season as the beginning of something special (3:54). The coach also addresses injuries to key players like Byron Murphy II and Riq Woolen, confirming no long-term concerns (4:13). Macdonald concludes by reflecting on the team's cohesiveness and his eagerness to start preparing for the next season (7:35).

Julian Love discusses the Seahawks' season finale and future outlook. (0:03) He emphasizes the importance of building a foundation, noting 10 wins and a 4-2 division record. (0:28) Love describes the team's mindset during the final defensive stand. (0:54) He praises Artie Burns for his reliability when called upon. (1:21) Love highlights the challenge of communication among defensive backs. (1:48) He reflects on the unusual final week of the season, with coaches finding creative ways to motivate the team. (2:36) Love commends Leonard Williams for his outstanding performance and leadership on defense throughout the season.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discusses the Seahawks' preparation for their final game, emphasizing the team's dedication despite changed goals (0:15). He addresses injuries, including Abraham Lucas's core injury (0:39), and praises players stepping up. Macdonald reflects on offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb's growth in understanding different schemes (2:14) and shares thoughts on the NFL's kickoff rule changes this season (4:16). He expresses satisfaction with Devon Witherspoon's Pro Bowl recognition (5:33) and explains the selection of Tyler Lockett and Ernest Jones IV as team captains for the final game (6:35). Macdonald emphasizes the importance of Lockett's veteran leadership and attitude of sacrifice in setting the team culture (7:43).

Seahawks offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb discusses the team's performance and future prospects. (0:15) He emphasizes the need for better offensive production, particularly in third-down situations and red zone efficiency. (1:39) Grubb highlights the importance of understanding different defensive schemes in the NFL and tailoring the offensive system accordingly. (2:23) He expresses confidence in young offensive linemen like Olu Oluwatimi and Christian Haynes, noting their potential for growth. (5:52) Grubb acknowledges the team's inconsistency but remains optimistic about their ability to compete with the best in the league. (7:53) Looking ahead, he stresses the importance of early-season consistency in the offensive line and improving physicality. Grubb also discusses the development of young players like Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas, as well as the performances of quarterback Geno Smith (12:34) and wide receiver DK Metcalf (13:08).

Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde discusses the team's approach to their final game and reflects on key players' performances. He emphasizes the importance of respecting the game and focusing on the process (0:15). Durde praises Boye Mafe's growth throughout the season (1:02) and expresses surprise at Leonard Williams not making the Pro Bowl, highlighting his impactful play (1:45). The coach addresses the challenge of generating turnovers (2:24) and acknowledges Devon Witherspoon's Pro Bowl selection (4:29). Durde also reflects on his personal growth as a first-year coordinator (4:58) and the valuable mentorship from assistant head coach Leslie Frazier (5:38).

Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith discusses the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams and reflects on the season (0:00). He praises offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb's consistency and acknowledges areas for personal improvement (0:33). Smith appreciates head coach Mike Macdonald's honesty about pursuing personal milestones in the final game (1:24). He analyzes the Rams' strong defensive performance, highlighting their front line and coverage strategies (3:13). Smith expresses disappointment over Leonard Williams not making the Pro Bowl, suggesting a potential bias against Seattle players (5:28). He also commends Devon Witherspoon's performance and Pro Bowl selection (4:55).

Seahawks wide receiver Tyler Lockett discusses his 10-year career and approach to teamwork. (0:11) He emphasizes supporting teammates like Jaxon Smith-Njigba in breaking records. (2:24) Lockett focuses on glorifying God rather than personal legacy. (8:59) He considers sacrifice his biggest contribution this season, putting team success above individual stats. (14:55) Lockett shares insights on the challenges of a new coaching regime and the importance of players buying into new systems. (17:27) He praises the growth of teammates DK Metcalf and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, highlighting their strong relationships on and off the field. (19:20) Lockett expresses gratitude for receiving the Steve Largent Award, voted on by his teammates, recognizing his sacrifices for the team.

Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon discusses his second Pro Bowl selection and the Seahawks' defensive improvements. (0:23) He emphasizes the importance of team play in his success. (1:26) Witherspoon achieved his goal of availability, playing all 17 games this season. (2:04) He credits Tyler Lockett for teaching him about body preservation. (2:32) Witherspoon highlights Coach Mike Macdonald's impact on the defense's improvement, praising his game plans and player involvement. (3:32) He appreciates voters looking beyond statistics for Pro Bowl selection. (4:42) Witherspoon expresses confidence in the team's potential for next year, citing improved understanding of Macdonald's defensive scheme.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discusses the Seahawks' approach to their final game of the season against the Rams (0:00). Despite not making the playoffs, Macdonald emphasizes the importance of reaching 10 wins and finishing 4-2 in the division (0:45). He praises the team's resolve and attitude in the face of changed goals (1:34). Macdonald highlights the value of interior defensive players like Leonard Williams and Jarran Reed (5:24) and discusses the growth of offensive linemen Olu Oluwatimi and Sataoa Laumea (7:16). He also commends Coby Bryant's performance in replacing the injured Rayshawn Jenkins (9:17). Macdonald stresses the importance of maintaining high standards and finishing the season with a win, regardless of playoff implications (10:38)

Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV shares insights on the upcoming game against the Rams, despite being out of playoff contention. He emphasizes the importance of reaching 10 wins and starting next year positively (0:08). Jones reflects on his time with the Seahawks (0:55), expressing his desire to stay with the team. He highlights his consistency, achieving 100+ tackles for three consecutive years (1:28). Jones praises Leonard Williams' impact on the defense (2:44) and discusses the challenges of settling into a new city (4:11). Looking ahead, he expresses optimism for the defense's future (4:57), stressing the importance of learning from this season's experiences to become a definite playoff team next year. Jones also mentions the team's focus during their last week (5:10) and the importance of maintaining their standard regardless of circumstances (6:26).

Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf discusses the upcoming game against the Rams, emphasizing the team's competitive spirit despite being out of playoff contention (0:13). He praises Tyler Lockett's leadership and impact on the team (1:23), and highlights Jaxon Smith-Njigba's impressive season (2:19). Metcalf reflects on the team's performance under new head coach Mike Macdonald (3:14) and expresses admiration for newcomer Ernest Jones IV's quick integration and leadership (4:42). The wide receiver emphasizes the importance of building for the future and maintaining a competitive edge in their final game (4:03).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald addresses the team's approach to their final game of the season. Despite not making the playoffs, Macdonald emphasizes the importance of reaching 10 wins and maintaining high standards (1:03). He acknowledges the need to improve the team's turnover margin in the future (1:58). Macdonald praises the team's effort in their recent game against Chicago (2:40) and discusses the playing time of defensive players Roy Robertson-Harris and Johnathan Hankins (4:16). He also commends linebacker Ernest Jones IV for his performance and fit with the team (5:17). Macdonald provides a nuanced perspective on the team's penalty issues, suggesting that the impact of penalties should be evaluated in context (6:03). He briefly mentions that Josh Jobe is doing well after the weekend (7:11) and confirms that the team came out of the last game relatively healthy (7:25).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald addressed the Seahawks' recent performance and playoff prospects. He praised the team's resilience in securing a winning season (0:00) and highlighted key defensive plays, including Riq Woolen's strong game and crucial interception (13:54). Macdonald emphasized the importance of special teams, particularly Jason Myers' field goals and Michael Dickson's punting in their low-scoring victory (12:40). He acknowledged the team's need to improve offensive production, especially in finishing drives (17:16). Regarding playoffs, Macdonald noted that while they don't control their destiny, they're focused on winning their final game and hoping for favorable outcomes elsewhere (6:59). He also discussed the emerging role of running back Kenny McIntosh (3:24) and praised the leadership of defensive linemen Jarran Reed and Leonard Williams (5:31).

In a post-game interview, Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith discusses the team's 6-3 win against the Chicago Bears. Smith acknowledges the offensive challenges (0:15), praising the running game and efficient passing despite the low score. He commends the Bears' defense (0:40) and explains their strategy of quick dump-offs (0:57). Smith addresses a controversial fumble play involving Pharaoh Brown (1:34) and expresses confidence in the team's offensive capabilities (3:19). He highlights the outstanding performance of the Seahawks' defense (4:07), mentioning players like Jarran Reed, Leonard Williams, and Uchenna Nwosu. Smith discusses the impact of the short week on game preparation (5:43) and concludes by emphasizing the team's toughness and readiness for the upcoming crucial week (6:55).

Jarran Reed reflects on the Seahawks' recent victory and team dynamics. He mentions continuing Michael Bennett's sack celebration (0:00), noting the importance of limiting it to two pumps to avoid penalties (0:26). Reed describes the intense preparation for the game, involving numerous meetings (0:39). He emphasizes the defense's resilience in low-scoring games (1:15) and praises the team's execution of coach Mike Macdonald's game plan (3:37). Reed also highlights his strong partnership with Leonard Williams on the defensive line (2:42) and discusses the challenge of containing quarterback Caleb Williams (3:21). He mentions the upcoming game against the Rams and the competitiveness of the NFC West (2:20).

Devon Witherspoon reflects on the Seahawks' recent defensive performance and team dynamics. At (0:07), he expresses excitement about a successful play call that resulted in an interception by Riq Woolen. Witherspoon acknowledges his own interception at (0:26), emphasizing the importance of capitalizing on opportunities. He credits his teammates' acceptance for his leadership development at (0:43). Witherspoon highlights the defense's eagerness to face challenges in protecting leads at (1:08). When asked about facing an offense with numerous screens at (1:22), he notes they've encountered similar strategies before, referencing a game plan from the Bills. The conversation concludes with Witherspoon's thoughts on Pete Carroll's potential return to coaching, praising Carroll's ability to connect with players at (1:39).

Uchenna Nwosu, linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks, reflects on his return after injury and the team's recent defensive performance. He expresses gratitude for his first sack of the season (0:05) while emphasizing the team's primary goal of winning. Nwosu highlights the defense's strong showing, including 7 sacks against their opponent (0:47). He discusses the challenges of facing mobile quarterbacks (1:22) and praises Leonard Williams' contributions to the defense (1:51). Nwosu commends Mike Macdonald's adaptive play-calling (2:14) and notes his own increasing comfort on the field as he continues to recover (2:55).

In a tight 6-3 victory over the Chicago Bears, Seattle Seahawks Head Coach Mike Macdonald praised his team's resilience and defensive performance. (0:14) Macdonald highlighted the defense's crucial role, crediting them for playing hard and making critical plays. (2:48) He specifically commended Devon Witherspoon's impactful performance, noting his leadership and energy. (4:52) The coach discussed the team's seven sacks, attributing them to a combination of rush and coverage. (6:31) Macdonald emphasized the importance of field position and the strain on the defense in a one-score game. (8:57) He praised Jarran Reed's significant contribution to the defense, mentioning his leadership and impact on the field. Macdonald also addressed Geno Smith's performance, acknowledging the quarterback's strong start and battling spirit despite challenges.

Leonard Williams discusses the Seahawks' defensive strategy against a scrambling quarterback, emphasizing the team's competitive spirit. He praises Devon Witherspoon's standout performance and highlights the strong partnership with Jarran Reed on the defensive line. Williams reflects on his own performance, considering this one of his best seasons. The team remains hopeful about playoff chances, focusing on controlling what they can. Williams also notes the high number of screen plays they faced and expresses appreciation for Uchenna Nwosu's first sack of the year after battling injuries. He mentions the value of veteran presence and communication on the field, particularly with players like Reed and Nwosu.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discussed the team's preparation for their upcoming game against the Bears. He mentioned the unorthodox week due to the holiday season (0:19). Macdonald confirmed that running back Kenneth Walker III would be out for the game (0:56). He praised running back Zach Charbonnet's consistency and preparation (1:52), and highlighted Kenny McIntosh's positive contributions when given opportunities (2:16). Macdonald emphasized the importance of forcing turnovers in the upcoming game (2:51) and maintained focus on winning despite the team no longer controlling their playoff destiny (3:15).

Seahawks offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb addressed the team's preparation for their upcoming game against the Bears. Grubb highlighted the Bears' strong defensive line as a key challenge (0:17). He discussed the team's strategy for the short week leading to Thursday's game, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical preparation (0:42). Grubb reflected on recent game performances, including interception and sack issues (1:16, 1:33), and praised the team's execution of complex plays against Minnesota's defense (2:34). He expressed confidence in tight end AJ Barner's receiving abilities, countering the narrative that Barner is solely a blocking tight end (4:47). Grubb also addressed the running game challenges and adaptations due to injuries (2:00).

Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde provides insights into the team's recent performance and strategies. Durde elaborates on the challenges of defending against mobile quarterbacks (0:40), stressing the importance of compressing the pocket and condensing rush lanes. He also addresses the team's performance against Justin Jefferson (1:45), acknowledging areas for improvement. Durde concludes by praising the defensive line's growth as a collective unit (2:26), highlighting their improved rush techniques and the impact of players like Dre'Mont Jones, Jarran Reed, and Johnathan Hankins in the interior run game (3:38).