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NFL·September 23, 2026 03:44 PM ET

Mike Macdonald apologizes to Sean Payton over leaked comments

The coaches will meet for a second time in Week 6.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 231 min read
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What happened: Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed Wednesday that he apologized to Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton after remarks made during an interview with Graham Bensinger were published. Macdonald had detailed a dispute where Payton cited Spygate over Seattle using fan-recorded training camp videos to prepare for a Week 1 matchup.

Why it matters: The public airing of the remarks created a distraction for Seattle, which sits at 2-0 after a 31-7 rout of Arizona. Macdonald noted he and Payton had an 'awesome' private conversation to clear the air, taking responsibility for the incident despite his belief the exchange was off the record.

What to watch: The Seahawks and Broncos are scheduled to play in Week 6.

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