In 2024, the Seattle Seahawks have named Mike Macdonald as their new head coach, marking the former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator as the youngest head coach in the NFL.
The Seattle Seahawks are finalizing the hiring of Mike Macdonald as their new head coach, succeeding Pete Carroll. Formerly the defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, Macdonald, at the age of 36, will become the youngest head coach in the NFL. He brings a strong defensive background, having worked with the Ravens and briefly with the University of Michigan. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport has acclaimed Macdonald as the premier defensive mind in the league, likening him to ‘The Sean McVay of defensive coaches.’ This decision comes after Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson withdrew from consideration. Macdonald takes the helm as the ninth head coach in Seahawks history, following Carroll’s successful 14-year tenure, which included a Super Bowl victory and a notable 60 percent win ratio (227-137).
The Seahawks have faced defensive challenges for almost eight years under Coach Carroll. Despite being 72, Carroll has not ruled out returning to coaching in the NFL, but he currently serves as an advisor for the team. Following the Ravens’ playoff elimination by the Kansas City Chiefs, there was awareness among players that their defensive coordinator might depart for a head coaching opportunity.
Pro Bowl linebacker Patrick Queen expressed high praise for Mike Macdonald, describing him as the top candidate currently available. Queen emphasized Macdonald’s unique qualities, stating that nobody does it like him in terms of dedication, care, and attention to detail. Queen highlighted Macdonald’s relentless pursuit of perfection and noted that whoever secures him as a coach will be getting the best candidate available. According to Queen, Macdonald stands out as the best person he has been around, both as a coach and as an individual, showcasing genuine care for players, the organization, and the fans.
All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton also commended Mike Macdonald, expressing the belief that Macdonald deserves all the success coming his way. Whether it’s a head coaching position or another opportunity, Hamilton conveyed his pride and happiness for Macdonald. Recognizing that everyone has their unique journey and timing in the league, Hamilton acknowledged Macdonald as a highly regarded name in the NFL, attributing it to the excellent job he has done with the team in the past few years. Hamilton emphasized that Macdonald’s success is well-earned and not handed to him, underlining his genuine happiness for Macdonald’s achievements.