The Cleveland Browns have requested an interview with Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde for their head coach position after parting ways with Kevin Stefanski. This marks a significant moment as Durde is the first British coach in NFL history and has played a pivotal role in elevating Seattle’s defensive performance this season.
Under the leadership of head coach Mike Macdonald and Durde, the Seahawks have shown remarkable improvement, currently ranking third in the league against the run, eighth against the pass, and first in DVOA (defense-adjusted value over average). Their defensive prowess contributed to a dominant victory over the San Francisco 49ers, securing the Seahawks’ 14th win of the season and the number one seed in the playoffs. This win also provided them with a bye week, a significant advantage as they prepare for the postseason.
Despite entering the season with skepticism from oddsmakers, who predicted they would miss the playoffs after trading away key players such as Geno Smith and DK Metcalf, Seattle has defied expectations. Their impressive performance throughout the 2025 NFL season has garnered attention from media outlets and other teams in the league. Macdonald is now considered a leading candidate for Coach of the Year, and both of his coordinators, including Durde, are receiving interest for head coaching roles.
Prior to the news regarding the Browns’ approach, Mirror US Sports spoke exclusively with Durde about his future in coaching. He reflected on comments made by his close friend, British television personality Vernon Kay, who predicted that Durde would quickly ascend to a head coaching position after joining Seattle. When asked about Kay’s remarks, Durde expressed humility and focus on his current role.
“It’s an honor that someone would say something like that,” Durde stated. “And I think you, I would say, seven years, maybe longer, 10 years ago, maybe you’d think about those things [becoming a head coach]. Once you get here and you’re doing it on a daily basis, you start understanding what’s important.”
Durde emphasized that his primary focus is on his current responsibilities in Seattle. “What I’ve learned in the eight years of doing this on a full-time basis is the most important thing is what you’re doing at that point in time. And right now, I’m having the time of my life [in Seattle]. I really am,” he said.
While Durde did not dismiss the possibility of becoming a head coach in the future, he seems committed to the Seahawks as they aim for a Super Bowl title. “Honestly, if things happen in the future, they happen,” he remarked. “Here, we have a blast every day. And I feel like when you just go about your business, things change when they need to change.”
Currently, Durde is in his second year as defensive coordinator for the Seahawks, collaborating closely with Macdonald on game planning and execution. As Seattle prepares for the playoffs, they will face the lowest-seeded team in the Divisional Round, which could include the Green Bay Packers, Los Angeles Rams, or Carolina Panthers.
With the Browns seeking a new direction and Durde’s impressive track record in Seattle, his potential move could reshape the coaching landscape of the NFL. For now, Durde remains focused on his team’s playoff ambitions while enjoying the journey he has created in Seattle.
