Mike Macdonald: "We're Going To Show Our Football Character" | Press Conference - December 30, 2024

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 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 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).

Seahawks tight end AJ Barner discusses his journey in the NFL and his efforts to prove himself as a complete tight end. He highlights a spectacular catch (0:35) that ranks among his best, alongside one from his college days at Indiana. Barner emphasizes his continuous efforts to improve both in blocking and receiving, addressing the misconception that he was just a blocking tight end coming out of college (1:47). He stresses the importance of earning the quarterback's trust (3:01) and adapting to increased playtime in the NFL(5:16). Barner mentions the team's philosophy under head coach Mike Macdonald of "staying the course" and "stacking wins" (6:52). He expresses confidence in his abilities and determination to continue breaking the narrative about his capabilities in the league.

Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith discusses the team's preparation for their upcoming Thursday night game against the Chicago Bears. Smith highlights the challenges of a short week (0:09) and praises the Bears' defense despite their record (0:32). He mentions the potential increased roles for running backs Kenny McIntosh and Zach Charbonnet (1:10). Smith commends tight end AJ Barner's recent performances (4:08) and emphasizes the need to involve Noah Fant more in the offense (4:51). He addresses the team's pre-snap penalty issues (6:13) and praises wide receiver Jaxon Smith Njigba's growth and work ethic (7:23). Smith concludes by discussing Tyler Lockett's professionalism and impact on the team despite reduced targets (8:53).

Seahawks cornerback Josh Jobe discusses his journey from the practice squad to becoming a key defensive player (0:20). He expresses gratitude for the opportunity and his commitment to working hard for the team. Jobe compares his experiences with coaches Nick Saban and Mike Macdonald, noting their leadership qualities (1:12). He also praises defensive backs coach Karl Scott for his coaching style and personal qualities (1:49). Jobe acknowledges the challenge of containing quarterback Caleb Williams, highlighting Williams' strong arm and scrambling ability (2:57). The cornerback emphasizes the importance of being detail-oriented in preparation and knowing assignments to play fast on the field (3:28). Jobe mentions his transition from safety to cornerback during the recruiting process (3:52) and briefly touches on the competitiveness and support within the Seahawks' defensive backs room (4:35).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald addressed the Seahawks' recent loss and their preparation for the upcoming game on a short week. He emphasized the team's need for consistency and complementary football, particularly in December. Macdonald discussed Geno Smith's performance, praising his overall play despite some interceptions. He also touched on the offensive line's handling of the Vikings' aggressive defense and the importance of improving procedural issues. The coach mentioned adjustments to the short week schedule, including a focus on recovery and game planning. Macdonald also addressed questions about running back Kenneth Walker III's status and the team's approach to facing dual-threat quarterbacks.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discussed the team's narrow defeat against the Minnesota Vikings. Macdonald praised the team's effort but acknowledged the need to clean up unforced errors (2:34). He addressed key moments, including a crucial face mask penalty on Byron Murphy II (1:59) and the decision to attempt a long field goal (1:05). Macdonald commended Geno Smith's performance (3:22) and Jaxon Smith-Njigba's solid game, reaching 1000 yards for the season (4:15). The coach emphasized the team's continued fight despite their playoff fate no longer being in their hands (0:29). Macdonald also mentioned a team rule situation with an unnamed player (5:21) and praised the execution of a fake punt (5:51).

Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith addressed the team's recent loss and upcoming challenges. Smith acknowledged the difficulty of the defeat (0:08) but praised the team's effort, particularly the offensive line's protection. He took responsibility for the game-ending interception (0:39). Smith emphasized the need to focus on the next game against Chicago (1:20), noting the short week and travel challenges. He stressed the importance of mental preparation (1:47) and highlighted wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba's achievement of surpassing 1000 yards receiving for the season (2:39). Despite the tough loss, Smith remained focused on the team's need to win their upcoming games (1:20).

Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba discusses the team's tough loss. He highlights the team's effective performance in the last two minutes of the game (0:20). Smith-Njigba discusses becoming the 10th player in franchise history to achieve 1000 receiving yards in a single season, expressing gratitude to God, quarterback Geno Smith, and his teammates (0:39). He emphasizes the need to quickly move on and prepare for their upcoming Thursday game (1:06). Smith-Njigba also praises teammate Tyler Lockett's leadership and impact on the team, expressing appreciation for the veteran's guidance (1:30). When asked about bouncing back, he emphasizes the importance of winning in the coming weeks (2:08).

Seattle Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV discusses the team's recent loss to the Vikings. (0:04) He acknowledges the game's difficulty and expresses disappointment. (0:31) Jones mentions a crucial play negated by a penalty, emphasizing the need for smarter, cleaner football. (0:51) Despite setbacks, Jones highlights the team's resilience. (1:17) With playoff chances now dependent on other factors, Jones stresses the importance of winning remaining games. (1:35) He emphasizes the need to quickly move past this loss and focus on the upcoming game against Chicago, given the short week ahead. Jones also mentions a future matchup against the Rams. (2:04) When asked about the Vikings' first drive, Jones admits he doesn't recall the specifics and would need to review the game film.