The Seahawks are tapping into a familiar coaching tree to bolster their staff, bringing in longtime Ravens assistant Daniel Stern as they continue shaping their offensive coaching structure under new head coach Mike Macdonald.
While Stern’s exact title is still being finalized-largely because Seattle is still in the process of hiring an offensive coordinator-he’s expected to take on a significant role, potentially as the team’s pass game strategist. And make no mistake: this isn’t just a name hire. Stern brings a decade of experience from one of the NFL’s most consistently competitive franchises, and his background suggests he’ll be a key figure in Seattle’s offensive evolution.
Stern spent the last 10 seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, most recently serving as director of football strategy and assistant quarterbacks coach. His responsibilities in Baltimore ran deep.
He wasn’t just another headset on the sideline-he played a central role in game planning, situational football, and decision-making. From scripting practice periods to advising on clock management and coaches’ challenges, Stern was a trusted voice in John Harbaugh’s ear.
That kind of experience doesn’t just translate-it elevates.
And there’s already built-in chemistry here. Stern and Macdonald worked together for seven seasons in Baltimore, a stretch that saw the Ravens consistently field one of the NFL’s most well-prepared and disciplined teams.
That shared history matters. Macdonald knows exactly what Stern brings to the table, and Stern steps into a situation where he won’t need to earn trust from scratch-he’s already got it.
One of Stern’s standout contributions in Baltimore was his focus on situational football and game management-areas that can often decide games in the margins. Since 2019, he’s been tasked with studying the nuances of NFL rules, officiating tendencies, and in-game strategy. That kind of detail-oriented expertise is invaluable for a young head coach like Macdonald, especially as he looks to establish his identity in Seattle.
It’s also worth noting that Stern was considered one of Harbaugh’s most trusted advisors during their time together in Baltimore. That kind of endorsement speaks volumes. And while Harbaugh has since taken the reins in New York with the Giants, Stern’s decision to follow Macdonald to Seattle shows where his loyalties-and perhaps his long-term vision-lie.
The Seahawks are clearly building something with intention, leaning on continuity, familiarity, and proven experience. Adding Stern is another step in that direction. As Seattle finalizes its offensive coordinator hire and rounds out the staff, Stern’s presence gives them a cerebral, well-connected mind to help shape the offensive identity of a team entering a new era.