Seahawks Explore Internal and NFC West Options for Offensive Coordinator

The Seattle Seahawks are in the midst of a coaching transition after Klint Kubiak left to become the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. The team is evaluating options to fill the offensive coordinator vacancy, including internal candidates and experienced assistants from other NFL clubs. Head coach Mike Macdonald has emphasized a deliberate approach, aiming to find a candidate who can continue Seattle’s offensive identity while positioning the team for a Super Bowl run.

Among the external candidates, the Seahawks have scheduled an interview with Brian Fleury of the San Francisco 49ers. Fleury has built a steady NFL resume, starting in 2013 as a quality control coach with the Buffalo Bills, then advancing to linebackers coach with the Cleveland Browns in 2015. Since joining San Francisco in 2019, he became the tight ends coach in 2022 and added run game coordinator responsibilities in 2025.

Fleury joins former Arizona Cardinals pass game specialist Conner Senger among the outside options. NFL insiders note the Seahawks are also giving serious consideration to internal candidates, reflecting Macdonald’s interest in promoting familiarity and continuity within the coaching staff. Seattle’s goal is to maintain a cohesive offensive philosophy after Kubiak’s departure while leveraging the experience of proven assistants.

Internal candidates include Andrew Janocko, Jake Peetz, Justin Outten, and Mack Brown. These coaches are reportedly being interviewed in the current week, underscoring the team’s emphasis on evaluating both experience and fit within Seattle’s existing system.

1. External Candidates Bring Diverse Experience

Fleury’s potential hiring signals Seattle’s willingness to consider candidates from within its NFC West rivalries. His combination of tight ends coaching and run game coordination provides versatility that could complement Seattle’s offensive schemes. His track record demonstrates a gradual rise through NFL coaching ranks and experience across multiple teams and positions. Similarly, Senger from the Cardinals brings pass game specialization, highlighting the Seahawks’ interest in candidates with targeted skill sets who can innovate within the current offensive framework. The focus on external candidates is strategic, ensuring Seattle does not limit its search to the current roster of assistants. Macdonald and the Seahawks are likely to weigh experience, leadership, and compatibility with the team’s culture. The coaching search reflects the high stakes, as Seattle aims to return to the Super Bowl after falling short in recent playoff campaigns. Bringing in an external coordinator could also provide new perspectives on scheme design and play-calling, complementing the continuity offered by internal candidates.

2. Internal Candidates Offer Continuity

Seattle’s internal interviews underscore the importance of maintaining cohesion in a system recently led by Kubiak. Janocko, Peetz, Outten, and Brown each bring familiarity with the team’s personnel and playbook, offering the advantage of minimizing disruption during the transition. Internal hires could allow for a smoother adjustment period for the players while preserving the offensive identity that helped Seattle compete at a high level. These candidates have already built relationships with the roster and understand the nuances of Macdonald’s leadership style. The team’s decision will likely consider which candidate can quickly step into the coordinator role while managing game planning, play-calling, and in-game adjustments effectively. Macdonald’s approach appears methodical, aiming to balance stability with the potential for innovation. Retaining one of the internal options could signal confidence in the current staff while providing a platform for long-term growth within the organization.

3. Balancing Strategy and Super Bowl Goals

Seattle’s offensive coordinator decision is central to the team’s immediate and long-term objectives. With the goal of winning a second consecutive Super Bowl, the Seahawks need a leader capable of sustaining offensive efficiency under pressure. The hiring process reflects a careful blend of evaluating external talent for fresh perspectives and internal candidates for continuity. Macdonald is tasked with ensuring the final choice aligns with both scheme philosophy and player development priorities. Timing is crucial, as offseason preparations and free-agent signings depend on clarity in the coordinator role. The decision will impact quarterback performance, running game strategy, and overall offensive cohesion. As the Seahawks finalize their choice, the coaching appointment will play a pivotal role in Seattle’s pursuit of championship contention in the 2026 season.