Devon Witherspoon Shines as Seahawks Build Macdonald’s Culture
During the Seattle Seahawks’ preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs, a brief helmet tap between teammates Devon Witherspoon and Jake Bobo illustrated the team’s evolving culture under head coach Mike Macdonald. As the Seahawks embark on their second season with Macdonald at the helm, Witherspoon has emerged as a pivotal figure, embodying the spirit and energy that the coach aims to instill throughout the roster.
In the first quarter, Bobo caught a 12-yard touchdown pass, igniting the crowd of over 60,000 at Lumen Field. Witherspoon, who had anticipated contributing to the defense, celebrated exuberantly from the sidelines. “Meet you in the end zone, I got you!” he shouted, reflecting a bond that extends beyond mere camaraderie. This connection is emblematic of the new Seahawks culture, where competition and support go hand in hand.
Witherspoon, selected fifth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, is the highest-drafted player in general manager John Schneider‘s tenure. He and Bobo, who joined the team as an undrafted rookie, have developed a relationship that highlights the competitive spirit Macdonald wants to cultivate. Their playful banter and mutual drive push both players to excel, with Bobo asserting his readiness to rise to Witherspoon’s challenges.
Devon Witherspoon showcases his leadership not just through performance but also by fostering an environment of accountability. His approach resonates with teammates, evident in their shared mantra of “12 as one,” a concept Macdonald emphasizes. Witherspoon’s willingness to hold himself accountable after mistakes reinforces the team’s collective responsibility and resilience.
As Macdonald integrates his philosophy into the team, he encourages phrases like “Go through things, not around them,” and “Chasing edges,” which have become part of the Seahawks’ lexicon. While these slogans are key to establishing culture, it is players like Witherspoon that bring them to life. He embodies the essence of what Macdonald envisions: a player who not only excels on the field but also uplifts others around him.
In a recent podcast appearance, Macdonald acknowledged the importance of maintaining strong relationships with players. He cited Witherspoon as an example of how constructive banter can foster a positive atmosphere. “I can give Spoon crap, and we scrimmage back and forth all the time, and it’s awesome,” he stated, emphasizing the mutual respect that exists between them.
The Seahawks are striving to reclaim their status as a Super Bowl contender, and establishing a robust team culture is crucial. Witherspoon’s impact extends beyond his physical abilities; he is also a vocal leader who communicates effectively both before and after plays. His infectious energy motivates his teammates, ensuring that everyone remains engaged and focused.
Defensive back Julian Love highlighted Witherspoon’s role in enhancing team dynamics, noting that he advocates for others while holding himself to high standards. Witherspoon’s relentless pursuit of excellence mirrors the aspirations of the Seahawks’ defense, which aims to be among the best in the league during this season.
As the Seahawks prepare for the 2025 season, Witherspoon stands out not only for his impressive skills but also for his leadership qualities. His ability to anticipate plays and his readiness to hold teammates accountable position him as a key figure in Macdonald’s strategy to revitalize the team.
Witherspoon’s journey reflects the ethos that Macdonald is instilling: a culture built on hard work, accountability, and a shared commitment to success. As the Seahawks look to make their mark in the upcoming season, Witherspoon will undoubtedly play a vital role in leading the charge, embodying the spirit of a team determined to rise to new heights.
