In a significant shakeup that connects three NFC West rivals and one AFC franchise, the Seattle Seahawks are expected to appoint Brian Fleury as their new offensive coordinator, according to league sources. Fleury, who most recently served as tight ends coach for the San Francisco 49ers, will replace Klint Kubiak after Kubiak accepted the head coaching position with the Las Vegas Raiders.
The move marks another chapter in a busy offseason coaching carousel and signals a clear philosophical direction under Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald.
Fleury arrives in Seattle with a reputation for detail-oriented coaching and a broad understanding of the game. During his time in San Francisco, he worked closely within one of the league’s most creative offensive systems, helping develop tight ends in a scheme known for versatility, pre-snap motion, and layered run-pass concepts. His experience in an organization widely praised for its offensive structure is expected to influence Seattle’s approach in 2026.
Sources indicate that Macdonald values Fleury’s comprehensive football perspective — one shaped not only by offensive responsibilities but also by exposure to defensive strategy earlier in his career. That dual understanding could prove critical as the Seahawks aim to evolve into a more unpredictable and balanced unit.
Fleury steps into the role at a pivotal time. Seattle is seeking greater offensive consistency and explosiveness after flashes of promise last season. The organization appears committed to innovation, and Fleury’s background suggests a willingness to adapt and experiment while maintaining structural discipline.
The transition also underscores the ripple effects of Kubiak’s departure. After serving as Seattle’s offensive coordinator, Kubiak’s move to Las Vegas as head coach created immediate vacancies across multiple staffs. His familiarity with several assistants has now influenced additional changes around the league.
One such move involves Seahawks quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko, who is now expected to be appointed as the Raiders’ offensive coordinator. Janocko will reunite with Kubiak in Las Vegas, continuing a professional partnership that includes previous stops in New Orleans and Seattle.
Janocko’s anticipated departure represents a notable loss for Seattle’s offensive staff, particularly in the quarterback room. Known for his preparation and communication skills, Janocko played a key role in game-planning and weekly adjustments. His reunion with Kubiak suggests continuity for the Raiders as they install a new system under their first-year head coach.
For Macdonald and the Seahawks, however, the reshuffling presents opportunity as much as challenge. The hiring of Fleury signals a belief in fresh ideas and collaborative thinking. Those close to the organization say Macdonald is deliberately assembling a staff of innovative football minds capable of long-term growth rather than short-term patchwork.
There is growing confidence within the Seahawks’ building that the 2026 season will reflect tangible progress. While roster construction remains ongoing, the coaching structure appears to be aligning with a broader vision centered on adaptability, tempo variation, and strategic diversity.
Fleury’s work with tight ends in San Francisco may also influence personnel usage in Seattle. Modern offenses increasingly rely on hybrid players who can block, motion, stretch the seam, and create mismatches. Expect Seattle to lean into formations and concepts that maximize versatility, particularly in two-tight-end sets and play-action packages.
The rivalry factor adds another intriguing layer. By hiring a coach directly from the 49ers’ staff, Seattle gains internal knowledge of a division opponent’s tendencies and preparation methods. While coaching philosophies are rarely transplanted wholesale, familiarity with an adversary’s structure can provide valuable insights during divisional matchups.
At the same time, Fleury faces the challenge of stepping out of a well-established offensive environment and proving himself as a primary play-caller. Transitioning from position coach to offensive coordinator carries increased responsibility — from scripting openings to in-game adjustments and red-zone decision-making. His success will depend not only on scheme design but also on staff cohesion and player buy-in.
Macdonald’s endorsement suggests strong belief in Fleury’s readiness. Those who have worked with Fleury describe him as meticulous and collaborative, traits that align with Seattle’s emphasis on preparation and situational awareness.
Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, Kubiak’s staff construction continues to take shape. Bringing Janocko aboard as offensive coordinator provides familiarity and system continuity. The Raiders’ leadership appears focused on installing a coherent identity quickly, minimizing the learning curve that often accompanies regime changes.
Across the league, coaching movement often signals deeper strategic shifts. In this case, Seattle’s decision to elevate a coach from a divisional rival reflects both confidence and calculated risk. It also highlights how interconnected NFL staffs have become, with relationships frequently guiding hires.
As offseason workouts approach, attention will turn to how quickly Fleury’s system takes hold. Player adaptation, terminology installation, and preseason execution will offer early indicators of the direction Seattle is heading.
For now, the Seahawks appear energized by the change. Macdonald’s vision of assembling innovative thinkers suggests an organization intent on evolving rather than standing still. If Fleury can translate his broad football perspective into a cohesive and dynamic offense, Seattle may indeed position itself for meaningful improvement in 2026.
In a league defined by margins, sometimes the most important gains begin not on the field, but in the meeting room.
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