What happened: Offensive lineman Grey Zabel praised Macdonald during summer workouts on the Green Light podcast, noting the coach possesses the sharpest football mind he has encountered. The summer recognition follows the organization unveiling Super Bowl LX championship rings featuring mechanical wings during their June celebration. Macdonald enters his third NFL campaign running defensive meetings while integrating newly acquired talent before veterans report for training camp.

Why it matters: Coaching continuity anchors the football operations department while the franchise awaits a formal NFL owner vote on the agreed $9.6 billion sale to Vinod Khosla's group. Seattle enters the 2026 season attempting to defend its championship in a competitive NFC West without the benefit of flying under the league's radar. Management and veterans have publicly adopted an underdog mentality to counter post-championship complacency during the upcoming 17-game schedule.

What to watch: League owners will vote on approving the Khosla family's purchase of the franchise ahead of the regular season opener. Seattle veterans report to the Virginia Mason Athletic Center in late July to open training camp and begin title defense practices.