The Seattle Seahawks' upcoming 2026 campaign is generating buzz, particularly around their new offensive coordinator, Brian Fleury. The focus on Fleury is understandable, given the team's Super Bowl success last season and the continuity they've maintained with many returning players and coaches.
Fleury's offensive scheme, reminiscent of his time with the San Francisco 49ers under Kyle Shanahan, is a key talking point. One of the standout features is the extensive use of pre-snap motions and shifts, a strategy that former NFL quarterback Brock Huard found intriguing during the team's minicamp practices.
According to Huard, the absence of these motions stood out, as the Seahawks didn't motion or move players or shift, which is a stark contrast to the 49ers' approach. The 49ers, as noted by NBC Sports Bay Area's Dan Dempster, utilized pre-snap motion in 73.8% of their offensive plays in 2025, ranking fourth in the NFL. Huard believes this strategy significantly impacts opposing defenses, disrupting their communication and forcing them to adapt.
"It just busts the hardwires and forces communication," Huard explained. "They don’t just do it to look cute or to be high in those numbers. They do it to screw up the wires of the defense... You’re going to see that in spades all season long."
Fleury's approach to integrating his new offensive scheme into the existing team dynamics is another fascinating aspect. Huard observed that Fleury is choosing to learn the team's existing language rather than imposing his own. This decision, Huard suggests, demonstrates Fleury's understanding of the importance of communication and collaboration within the team.
"Am I going to blow up their whole language that everybody knows so I can speak my language? Or do I learn their stuff and make it easier on all of them and harder on me?" Huard quoted, highlighting Fleury's thoughtful approach.
The result of this integration is a positive feedback loop, with players and coaches finding the new language easy to understand. This seamless communication is a testament to Fleury's ability to adapt and work collaboratively, ensuring the team's success in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, the Seahawks' focus on Fleury and his offensive scheme is well-deserved. His strategic use of pre-snap motions and shifts, combined with his thoughtful approach to integrating new ideas into the existing team culture, positions the Seahawks for continued success in the NFL.
