Seahawks Press

Top Takeaway

Head Coach Mike Macdonald revealed that wideout Jaxon Smith-Njigba is set to be the first progression on many plays as the team finds creative ways to move him around, while a padded practice was rolled back to shells because some players are “nicked up” ahead of Saturday’s Lumen Field practice.

Press Conferences & Interviews

[Mike Macdonald / Head Coach] · YouTube Macdonald adjusted what would have been a padded practice to shells because several players are currently “nicked up,” but he came away highly pleased with the competitive camp energy. He was glowing about wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, noting he “can get open from wherever” and is set to be “number one in the progression on a lot of plays”. Addressing the running game, Macdonald countered offensive coordinator Brian Fleury’s critical view by stating, “I’m very encouraged of where our run game is” under the new system. Macdonald was lighthearted, candid, and praised the Hard Knocks crew for capturing the authentic identity of the team’s locker room.

[Brian Fleury / Offensive Coordinator] · YouTube Fleury revealed that while a major chunk of his foundation is installed, they face an offensive bottleneck by only going against Macdonald’s defense every day, which keeps them from executing elements meant for other defensive schemes. He is looking forward to upcoming joint practices in Tennessee to unlock those aspects of the package. He highlighted the “extremely rare situation” of returning all five starting offensive linemen as a massive advantage for making adjustments “lightning fast”. Fleury was realistic yet demanding, stating he wants the run game to be better, while praising quarterback Jaylen for his throwing efficiency and backup Sam for taking superb ownership of the offense.

[Aden Durde / Defensive Coordinator] · YouTube Durde declared that camp competition is “everything” and that players must constantly earn their roles in this system. He raved about defensive tackle Riley Mills, stating that Mills was “dominating” his matchups at the end of practice. Durde also projected a massive year for Byron, predicting he will show he is an “elite pass rusher too” alongside his already elite run-defense skills. Durde was energetic and candid, outlining safety battles where Ty has worked with the ones while Bud, AJ, and Rodney compete, and praising new linebacker coach Zach as a “dog”.

[Derick Hall / Outside Linebacker] · YouTube Hall praised the authenticity of Hard Knocks, explaining that when players get into fights on the field, they immediately “go in the locker room and hug it out”. He detailed his tight bond with veteran leader Leonard Williams (“Leo”), joking that he has spent two offseasons begging Leo to take him spear fishing and noting that Riley Mills’ growth is “night and day”. Hall also gleefully detailed his custom $60,000–$70,000 Ram 2500 truck, which features phone-controlled air suspension. Hall was highly candid and charismatic, explaining how critical it is for professional athletes to have a secondary passion outside of football to stay balanced.

[Riley Mills’ Making a Big Impact Early in Camp / Defensive Tackle Feature] · YouTube This segment spotlights the rapid development of defensive tackle Riley Mills, who has been “dominating” his practice reps. Team leaders and coaches note that Mills trains hard every day, is humble enough to learn from the veterans around him, and is always looking for ways to improve. The tone is overwhelmingly positive, showcasing Mills as a rising force on the Seahawks’ defensive front.

[Jay Harbaugh / Special Teams Coordinator] · YouTube Harbaugh noted that the kickoff rule change allowing an extra floater is minor but is a “sweet spot” they will look to exploit. He highlighted the “speed, twitch, and acceleration” of young player Henderson, and expressed excitement about having both returners healthy. Harbaugh was highly analytical and focused, praising the rare, self-correcting chemistry between kicker Jason Myers and punter Michael Dickson that makes his job much easier.

[Continuity is Key / Offensive Line Feature] · YouTube This feature highlights offensive coordinator Brian Fleury discussing the rare luxury of returning all five starting offensive linemen. He emphasized that having this established starting five allows the group to communicate seamlessly, helping them make adjustments “lightning fast” during practices. The tone is optimistic, pointing to the line’s deep-rooted cohesion under coach John Benton as a massive offensive advantage.

Injury & Roster Updates

The Seahawks adjusted practice from pads to shells because several players are currently “nicked up”. Julian has been out for the past week, while Nick is also out, opening up opportunities for Dean Anthony Bell. Running back Zach is going through a rehab progression to get his body ready for the season, with no specific timetable yet for his return. Meanwhile, Ty is working with the first-team unit at safety, with Bud, AJ, and Rodney competing behind him.

Reading Between the Lines

• The Run Game Standards: There is a healthy, demanding contrast between the coordinators and Head Coach Mike Macdonald. While Offensive Coordinator Brian Fleury candidly stated that the run game “is not there yet” and has massive room for growth, Macdonald countered that he is “very encouraged” by its “inexpensive” and decisive trajectory.
• JSN Breakout Incoming: Macdonald’s note that sophomore receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba will be “number one in the progression on a lot of plays” is a massive signal that he will be the focal point of Fleury’s offense, despite constant defensive attention.
• Riley Mills’ Rising Stock: Both DC Aden Durde and OLB Derick Hall went out of their way to praise Riley Mills. Hall compared his raw power to Leonard Williams, and Durde said he was “dominating” late-practice reps. Expect Mills to secure a major role in the defensive rotation.

🎧 This digest would make a solid audio overview if you want to listen to a deep-dive podcast style recap of these training camp storylines.