Seattle, Washington – The Seattle Seahawks have made a significant coaching move by hiring former University of Washington offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb to the same position on new coach Mike Macdonald’s staff, according to sources familiar with the situation. This comes after Grubb had previously accepted the Alabama offensive coordinator job before deciding to return to Seattle.
Grubb’s tenure at the University of Washington saw him coordinate a pass-heavy offense that ranked sixth in FBS in yards per game and sixth in scoring over the past two seasons. His success with quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has drawn attention, with the QB leading FBS in passing yards per game and ranking high in dropback percentage. Grubb’s decision to leave Alabama for the NFL marks an important transition in his coaching career.
With the Seahawks, Grubb becomes the third coordinator hired to Macdonald’s staff, joining Jay Harbaugh for special teams and Aden Durde for defense. Macdonald will call plays on the defensive side of the ball, and the addition of Leslie Frazier as assistant head coach adds further depth to the coaching staff.
The connection between Grubb and Penix Jr. at the University of Washington has sparked speculation about the possibility of the Seahawks selecting the highly-regarded quarterback in the upcoming draft. This move could potentially impact Geno Smith’s future as the team’s starting quarterback, given his up-and-down performance in the 2023 season.
Grubb’s extensive experience as an offensive coordinator in college football, including stints at various programs, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Seahawks. While he may be new to the NFL, Macdonald has emphasized that play-calling experience in the league is not a prerequisite for his offensive coordinator. This hiring decision underscores the Seahawks’ commitment to finding the right fit for their coaching staff, prioritizing open-mindedness and a growth mindset.
The Seahawks’ pursuit of a new offensive coordinator also included discussions with other candidates, showcasing the team’s thorough approach to the hiring process. The addition of Grubb is a significant development for the Seahawks as they continue to build their coaching staff for the upcoming season.