Seattle, Washington – January 9, 2026
A 14–3 season has pushed the Seattle Seahawks back into the center of the NFL spotlight — not only because of what happened on the field, but because the coaching staff has become one of the league’s most coveted assets. As interview requests continue to ripple across the league, the possibility of Klint Kubiak departing Seattle is being taken seriously. And if that happens, the Seahawks’ next move, according to multiple internal conversations, is already coming into focus.
It took Kubiak just one season to reshape Seattle’s offense. Once heavily dependent on the passing game, the Seahawks evolved into a unit capable of controlling tempo through the run, becoming more balanced, more physical, and harder to predict. That shift is precisely why several NFL teams believe Kubiak is ready for the next step — and why Seattle understands that retaining him may not be entirely within its control.
Inside the building, one name has surfaced early and often: Mike McDaniel. Recently parted from the Miami Dolphins, McDaniel is widely viewed by league evaluators as better suited to an offensive coordinator role than a head coach. His Dolphins offenses were explosive, creative, and — most importantly for Seattle — committed to the run.
In 2023, Miami was not among the league’s most pass-heavy teams, yet finished first in total yards and second in scoring. That production wasn’t accidental; it was the result of structure, spacing, and a system designed to put players in advantageous positions. It mirrors the direction the Seahawks are heading — and explains why McDaniel is considered a seamless fit should Kubiak depart.
Another factor makes the decision even cleaner: clear lines of authority. Under head coach Mike Macdonald, there is no ambiguity about leadership. Macdonald sets the vision and controls the overall product, while a potential McDaniel hire would allow the offense to be singularly focused on efficiency and innovation — much like Kubiak’s current role.
Seattle still hopes to keep Kubiak for at least another season to preserve continuity. But the NFL rarely allows perfect plans to unfold. And if the moment of separation arrives, the Seahawks won’t need to search in the dark.
In an offseason defined by movement and uncertainty, the answer to Seattle’s next offensive coordinator may already be right in front of them.
