The Seattle Seahawks' coaching staff for 2026 is taking shape, and it’s a story of both loss and renewal. But here's where it gets controversial: can the new hires fill the void left by key departures, or is the team taking a risky gamble? After a triumphant Super Bowl win, head coach Mike Macdonald and general manager John Schneider have been hard at work reshaping the staff following the departure of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who’s now leading the Las Vegas Raiders. Kubiak isn’t alone—he’s taken two assistants with him, leaving Seattle with some big shoes to fill. But fear not, Seahawks fans, because Macdonald and Schneider have been strategic in their replacements, bringing in seasoned veterans and fresh talent alike.
And this is the part most people miss: the Seahawks’ new offensive coordinator, Brian Fleury, wasn’t an obvious choice. Initially, the team was expected to promote from within, but Fleury’s impressive interview performance and 13 years of diverse NFL experience—including seven seasons with the San Francisco 49ers—sealed the deal. Fleury’s role as the 49ers’ run game coordinator and tight ends coach last season suggests he’s well-equipped to bring a dynamic offensive strategy to Seattle. But will his style mesh with the Seahawks’ existing system? Only time will tell.
Let’s dive into the specifics. The Seahawks lost three key coaches to the Raiders: Klint Kubiak (offensive coordinator), Andrew Janocko (quarterbacks coach), and Rick Dennison (run game coordinator/senior offensive advisor). In their place, Seattle has added four new faces:
Brian Fleury (Offensive Coordinator): As mentioned, Fleury’s hire is a bold move. His ability to work on both sides of the ball and his experience under Kyle Shanahan in San Francisco make him a versatile addition. But how will he adapt to leading an offense in a new environment?
Zachary Orr (Inside Linebackers Coach): Orr’s transition from Baltimore’s defensive coordinator to Seattle’s inside linebackers coach is intriguing. Having worked with Macdonald in Baltimore, Orr brings a familiar presence to the staff. But is this a step down for him, or a strategic lateral move?
Thomas Hammock (Running Backs Coach/Senior Offensive Assistant): Hammock’s seven years as Northern Illinois University’s head coach and his previous stint as Baltimore’s running backs coach give him a unique blend of collegiate and NFL experience. Can he translate this into success with the Seahawks’ rushing attack?
Daniel Stern (Role TBA): Stern’s role remains undefined, but Macdonald has hinted at his significance. With a decade on John Harbaugh’s Ravens staff, Stern is a seasoned strategist. But what exactly will his ‘evolving’ role entail, and how will it impact the offense?
Key assistants expected to return include:
- Aden Durde (Defensive Coordinator): Despite interviewing for head coaching roles, Durde is staying put. His continuity is crucial for Seattle’s defense.
- Jay Harbaugh (Special Teams Coach): Harbaugh’s special teams unit was a game-changer last season, with Seattle becoming one of just 10 Super Bowl teams to score at least five special teams touchdowns. His return is a quiet victory.
- Leslie Frazier (Assistant Head Coach): Frazier’s wealth of experience and mentorship are invaluable. His impact on the team’s culture cannot be overstated.
- John Benton (Offensive Line Coach): Benton’s return is a sigh of relief for Seahawks fans. Under his guidance, Seattle’s offensive line allowed just 27 sacks last season—their lowest in two decades. Can he maintain this level of performance?
- Justin Outten (Run Game Coordinator): Promoted from run game specialist, Outten’s impact was evident when the rushing attack surged after he took over running back coaching duties mid-season. His promotion is well-deserved, but can he sustain this momentum?
- Jake Peetz (Passing Game Coordinator): Another in-house OC candidate, Peetz’s return ensures stability in the passing game.
Controversial Question: Is Seattle’s new coaching staff a recipe for continued success, or are they setting themselves up for a fall? With a mix of proven veterans and unproven talents, the Seahawks are taking a calculated risk. Fleury’s hire, in particular, is a wildcard. While his experience is impressive, his ability to lead an offense in a new system remains untested at this level. Similarly, Orr’s transition from defensive coordinator to linebackers coach raises eyebrows. Is this a demotion, or a strategic move to strengthen a specific area?
As the Seahawks gear up for 2026, one thing is clear: change is in the air. But whether this change will propel them to new heights or leave them scrambling remains to be seen. What do you think? Are the Seahawks making the right moves, or are they playing with fire? Let us know in the comments below!
