Jim Harbaugh: The Special Teams Maestro Behind the Seahawks’ Super Bowl Run
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — As the Seattle Seahawks prepare for Super Bowl 60, a key component of their success story is often overlooked: their exceptional special teams unit, masterfully orchestrated by Jay Harbaugh, son of Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh. While the spotlight often shines on offensive and defensive stars, the Seahawks’ special teams have consistently delivered game-changing plays.
From Skepticism to Admiration
When Jay Harbaugh joined the Seahawks as special teams coordinator in February 2024, long snapper Chris Stoll initially harboured reservations. Stoll’s six years at Penn State contrasted with Jay’s nine seasons coaching at Michigan, under his father, Jim Harbaugh. However, Stoll quickly became a believer.
“He is able to generate buy-in from guys, and that’s also just the culture we have here in Seattle,” Stoll explained. “We know that we can make a difference and an impact on special teams.”
A Touchdown Machine
The impact is undeniable. Throughout the playoffs, the Seahawks have scored an impressive five special teams touchdowns, with four coming on returns. Rashid Shaheed, acquired from the New Orleans Saints in November, ignited the divisional round against the San Francisco 49ers with an electrifying kickoff return for a touchdown – one of three special teams touchdowns for the speedy receiver.
Ahead of their 31-27 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC championship game, Harbaugh emphasized the rarity of such success. “The investment that they have, that they put in day in and day out, unselfishness and commitment to doing it right and respecting the opponent in the process, they deserve to have success,” he stated.
Beyond Returns: Kicking and Punting Excellence
Seattle’s special teams prowess extends beyond the return game. Veteran kicker Jason Myers, in his 11th season, shattered the NFL record for most points in a single season with 171, surpassing David Akers’ previous mark of 166. Punter Michael Dickson, in his eighth year, earned a second-team AP All-Pro selection, averaging 42.2 yards per punt and consistently pinning opponents deep with 20 of his 52 punts inside the 20-yard line.
“They’re studs,” declared special teams ace and fullback Brady Russell. “They’re clearly two of the best in the world and their performance kind of reflects their work ethic.”
A Complete Unit
The Seahawks also excelled in minimizing opponents’ opportunities, allowing the second-fewest punt returns (19) and fourth-fewest touchbacks (3) in the league in 2025. Unsung heroes like Dareke Young have also stepped up in crucial moments, such as recovering a muffed punt in the NFC championship game to set up a touchdown.
“There’s been a ton of games where we really flipped the game, got the momentum back,” said Myers. “Or, it was a close game, and we really started the onslaught of points.”
A Coach’s Vision and a Long-Standing Relationship
Coach Mike Macdonald credits Jay Harbaugh’s arrival in 2024 as a turning point. Their connection dates back to Macdonald’s time as Michigan’s defensive coordinator in 2021, when Jay oversaw the Wolverines’ special teams. However, their relationship began even earlier, in 2014, when Jim Harbaugh interviewed Macdonald for a position with the Baltimore Ravens.
“It was a very, very easy decision to beg him to come to Seattle and be our special teams coordinator,” Macdonald said. “And he’s done a tremendous job since Day 1. You talk about chasing edges, this guy, that’s how he operates all the time. Pushing the envelope, he pushes me. He’s got a great perspective.”
Source: AP NFL
