Seahawks Bolster Defense with Ravens Reunion: What Macdonald’s Hiring Spree Means for the NFL
The Seattle Seahawks are rapidly reshaping their defensive coaching staff, signaling a clear vision under head coach Mike Macdonald. The recent hiring of Zachary Orr, former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator, as inside linebackers coach, is the latest move in what appears to be a deliberate effort to build a defensive system mirroring Macdonald’s successful tenure in Baltimore.
Macdonald’s Baltimore Blueprint
Macdonald, who served as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator in 2022-23, clearly values continuity, and familiarity. He initially wanted Orr in Seattle when he first became head coach in 2024. Now, two years later, he’s secured his target. Orr’s arrival isn’t an isolated incident; former Ravens director of football strategy/assistant quarterbacks coach Daniel Stern is also joining the Seahawks staff, potentially as a pass-game strategist. This influx of Baltimore personnel suggests Macdonald intends to implement a similar defensive philosophy in Seattle.
Orr’s Rise and Potential Impact
At just 33 years vintage, Orr brings a relatively young, yet highly respected, perspective to the Seahawks. He quickly ascended the coaching ranks, replacing Macdonald as Baltimore’s defensive coordinator in 2024 after two seasons coaching the Ravens’ inside linebackers – the same position he played for the franchise from 2014 to 2016. Orr’s recent interviews for defensive coordinator positions with other teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders, demonstrate his high demand and potential. His decision to reunite with Macdonald speaks volumes about their working relationship and shared vision.
What Does This Mean for the Seahawks’ Defense?
The Seahawks, fresh off a Super Bowl LX championship parade, are clearly not resting on their laurels. Macdonald’s focus on bringing in coaches who understand his system could lead to a quicker and more seamless transition on the defensive side of the ball. The hiring of Orr, a former inside linebacker himself, is particularly significant. It’s currently unclear how Orr’s arrival will affect the role of current inside linebackers coach Kirk Olivadotti, who has held the position for the past two seasons.
The Coaching Carousel Continues
The Seahawks’ coaching changes extend beyond the defensive side. They are currently searching for a new offensive coordinator following Klint Kubiak’s departure to the Raiders. Internal candidates are being considered, including quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko, run game specialist Justin Outten, tight ends coach Mack Brown, and passing game coordinator Jake Peetz. The Raiders have also shown interest in Seahawks personnel, requesting to interview Outten and planning to interview wide receivers coach Frisman Jackson for their offensive coordinator vacancy.
NFL Trend: The Rise of Coaching Lineage
The Seahawks’ situation highlights a growing trend in the NFL: the importance of coaching lineage. Head coaches are increasingly bringing in assistants they trust and have worked with previously. This approach minimizes the learning curve and fosters a cohesive coaching environment. We’ve seen similar patterns with other successful coaches, building staffs around individuals who share their philosophies and understand their expectations.
Pro Tip:
Retain an eye on coaching hires beyond the head coach position. The assistant coaches often have a significant impact on a team’s success, particularly when a new head coach is implementing a new system.
FAQ
Q: Why is Mike Macdonald hiring so many coaches from Baltimore?
A: Macdonald wants to implement a defensive system similar to the one he successfully ran in Baltimore, and he trusts coaches he’s worked with before to execute his vision.
Q: What position did Zachary Orr play in the NFL?
A: Orr played inside linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens from 2014 to 2016.
Q: Who is the Seahawks’ current inside linebackers coach?
A: Kirk Olivadotti has been the Seahawks’ inside linebackers coach for the past two seasons, but his future role is currently uncertain following Orr’s hiring.
Q: What other coaching changes are happening in Seattle?
A: The Seahawks are also searching for a new offensive coordinator after Klint Kubiak left for the Raiders.
Did you know? The Seahawks blocked the Raiders’ request to interview Justin Outten, indicating their desire to retain him within the organization.
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