Seahawks DL Jarran Reed discusses how playing for Mike Macdonald is different

Seattle Seahawks defensive end Jarran Reed returned to the team last offseason, signing a two-year contract worth $12.8 million. It represented Reed’s second stint with the Seahawks after previously playing for the franchise from 2016 to 2020. That made the former Alabama standout a loyal player to Pete Carroll, having played for coach Carroll throughout two separate stints.

That makes Reed an excellent candidate to discuss the differences surrounding the organization under first-year head coach Mike Macdonald. Reed watched Carroll grow and change throughout several seasons apart. He now has an opportunity to play for Macdonald.

Luckily, local media recently asked Reed about the changes under Macdonald’s leadership.

“It’s been really good,” Reed said about playing for Macdonald. “I say it all the time. I feel like he brought back old school football. No shots or anything, but I feel like that’s been missing for a little bit. We’re bringing the physicality back. We bring the mentality back of playing grown men football for all four quarters,” Reed concluded.

The Seahawks will certainly field a physical defense this season. As the defensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens last year, Macdonald’s defense recorded a league-leading 60 sacks. Reed’s approach fits Macdonald’s preferred aggressive demeanor.

That’s precisely why Reed, entering his ninth season, is embracing Macdonald’s leadership.