Justin Outten in the Mix for Seahawks OC Job - With Deep Ties to Syracuse and a Proven Run Game Pedigree
There’s a familiar name in the running for one of the most important jobs on the Seattle Seahawks coaching staff - and he just might be the right fit at the right time.
Justin Outten, a former Syracuse offensive lineman and current run game specialist/offensive line assistant in Seattle, has reportedly interviewed for the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator position. New head coach Mike Macdonald has shown a willingness to promote from within, and Outten’s fingerprints are already all over the team’s recent shift in offensive identity.
Let’s break it down.
From the Dome to the NFL
Outten’s football roots trace back to Syracuse, where he played on the offensive line from 2003 to 2006. He was a full-time starter his final two seasons, helping the Orange to two .500 campaigns during his time there. Originally from Pennsylvania, Outten brought a physical edge to the trenches - something that’s followed him into his coaching career.
After a brief stint coaching at Syracuse in 2007, he went on to lead a high school program in Houston from 2008 to 2015. From there, he climbed the NFL ladder: Atlanta Falcons (2016-18), Green Bay Packers (2019-21), Denver Broncos (2022), Tennessee Titans (2023-24), and finally, the Seahawks in 2025.
And it’s in Seattle where his impact has been most noticeable - especially in the run game.
A New Era in Seattle’s Offense
The Seahawks underwent a major philosophical shift this past offseason. Gone are the high-flying days under former offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb. Head coach Mike Macdonald made sweeping changes - bringing in Klint Kubiak to install a more balanced, run-first system, trading away quarterback Geno Smith to the Raiders, and moving on from wideouts DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett.
Some saw it as a rebuild. Macdonald saw it as a reset.
And it worked.
Behind a revitalized ground game - one that Outten had a direct hand in shaping - Seattle found its identity. Running backs Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet thrived in the new scheme, with Walker ultimately being named Super Bowl MVP. That’s not just a testament to the players, but also to the system and the coaches behind it.
Outten’s role in that turnaround shouldn’t be overlooked. His experience in run game coordination, paired with his O-line background, made him a key part of the Seahawks’ offensive resurgence. If Macdonald is looking to maintain continuity while building on this new foundation, Outten makes a strong case for the OC role.
Orange Around the Horn
Back on the Syracuse campus, it’s been a busy week for the Orange.
The men’s basketball team pulled out a gritty 107-100 double-overtime win over Cal on Wednesday night at the JMA Wireless Dome. Nate Kingz led the way with 27 points, while William Kyle III posted a monster double-double - 15 points and 16 boards. That win moves the Orange to 14-11 overall and 5-7 in ACC play, with a Saturday afternoon showdown against SMU on deck.
Meanwhile, Syracuse men’s lacrosse is set for a heavyweight clash of its own. The No. 2-ranked Orange will host top-ranked Maryland on Friday night at the Dome in what promises to be one of the marquee matchups of the season.
What’s Next?
For Justin Outten, the next step could be a big one. He’s already helped lay the groundwork for Seattle’s offensive transformation. Now, he may get the chance to call the plays himself.
And for Syracuse fans, it’s another reason to keep an eye on the NFL - one of their own could soon be steering the ship for a team on the rise.