The Mike Macdonald regime started its first mandatory mini-camp session Tuesday afternoon at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center. With all the expected players in the building, Macdonald had a first-hand look at all of his weapons on both sides of the ball.
“ I think the whole goal of the whole offseason is just to establish our foundation. I think it’s just the opportunity to put an exclamation point on it. The guys have done a great job, man, “ Macdonald said after the team practice. “They’ve done everything we asked; responded when we pushed them; great attitude; practicing with enthusiasm; practicing fast. We finished 15 minutes ahead of schedule today, and that’s been about par for the course. Especially with the longer practice, that was cool to see. Yeah, just stamp the whole thing.”
One obvious Macdonald stamp was the number of 11 11 matchups during the fast-paced, international, and high-spirited practice.
“It’s not that different from what I’m used to and what we’re shooting for. A lot of group periods, a lot of concept periods where we’re splitting up. We designed practice so it kind of handles the load that way. We are trying to introduce them to a lot of situation work and understand they’re kind of trying to play within the context of the game. All these things are great to teach. You know, you kind of just hit all the situations that way rather than kind of tailoring to a certain thing.”
PRACTICE STANDOUTS
Several players made their presence known after electing not to attend the OTA’s. Among those players was DK Metcalf who was named to the Pro Bowl last season and recorded back-to-back 1000 receiving yards in 2023 and 2022. The thin and lean Metcalf left an impression on Macdonald.
.“A guy you always have to account for. Any steps he steps on the field you got to know where 14 is and you can’t let him wreck the game. He wants to be good. He wants to be the best, and he wants to be pushed and coached hard, which you respect about him,” said Macdonald. “The way he practices is awesome. I mean, this guy practices extremely hard. Does all the little things you’re asking him to do? It’s a great example he is setting for that room and our offense as a whole. A lot of respect for DK, the type of player and person he is. I just love seeing him out there, because he raises the whole level of our team when he’s practicing for us. “
DEVON WITHERSPOON
Another player Macdonald was impressed with during the 11 11 drills was second-year cornerback Devon Witherspoon. A player Macdonald is looking to use in multiple roles
“I mean, where do I start? Great feel for the game. I mean, just picks things up quickly, but just understands the ball and plays at a fast speed. At Nickel there is a lot of action in there, and so when guys have that type of skillset you can get them right around the action as much as possible. He’ll do all the things: He’ll blitz, man, zone, and play deep in the field, so it’s a fun positioning to play. “
PLAYERS NOT ATTENDING DAY ONE MINICAMP
Free agents Tyrel Dodson and Jerome Baker have not participated in any of the offseason activities. Both are expected to participate in training camp. Abe Lucas and Cameron Young did not participate and are also expected to be back for training camp.
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