Just In: John Schneider Talks Mike Macdonald and the Fresh New Era Taking Shape in Seattle
A bold new chapter is underway in the Pacific Northwest, and Seahawks general manager John Schneider is ready to talk about it. In a recent sit-down with *CBS Sports*, Schneider opened up about the arrival of new head coach Mike Macdonald and what fans can expect as the Seahawks officially turn the page on the Pete Carroll era and step into a fresh identity.
After over a decade of success under Carroll — including a Super Bowl title and countless playoff runs — the Seahawks knew that replacing a legendary figure wouldn’t be easy. But Schneider says Mike Macdonald was the right choice for exactly where the franchise needs to go next.
“Mike brings a different energy, a different lens,” Schneider said. “It’s not about replacing Pete — it’s about evolving the Seahawks’ identity. Mike is incredibly sharp, has a vision, and he connects really well with today’s players.”
Macdonald, just 36 years old, was one of the NFL’s hottest coaching candidates after engineering one of the league’s most dominant defenses in Baltimore. Known for his cerebral approach, calm demeanor, and strategic innovation, he now becomes the youngest head coach in Seahawks history — and fans are eager to see what he brings to the Pacific Northwest.
Schneider praised Macdonald’s ability to blend leadership with humility. “He’s got this presence where you can tell he’s fully in control, but he’s not a guy who needs to dominate a room. He lets his work speak,” Schneider said.
That work starts now. With the offseason in full swing, Macdonald and Schneider have already begun reshaping the roster. The Seahawks’ focus appears to be on youth, versatility, and speed — particularly on defense, where Macdonald’s expertise will be front and center. Schneider mentioned that while free agency has been productive, the upcoming NFL Draft will be key to building the kind of defense Macdonald envisions.
“Mike’s defense is built on confusion, speed, and attacking — and that starts with the right personnel,” Schneider explained. “We’re excited about the talent we have, but we’re also looking to bring in guys who fit what we’re building here.”
Of course, with change comes uncertainty. Longtime fans are wondering how the new era will compare to the “Legion of Boom” glory days or the Russell Wilson-led playoff runs. But Schneider was clear: this isn’t about living in the past — it’s about creating something new.
“We’re not trying to recreate what worked in 2013,” he said. “We’re trying to build a team that can win right now — and win in today’s NFL.”
As the Seahawks gear up for training camp under their new leader, the buzz in Seattle is real. The team has embraced change, and with a clear vision from both the front office and the new coaching staff, expectations are building for something special.
For Seahawks fans, the message is simple: The future has arrived — and it’s Mike Macdonald’s time to lead the charge.
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