There's definitely an adjustment period without Quinn and Norton. Part of why Pete promotes from within is to flatten the learning curve a bit during transitions. For Richard, it's just getting used to a different role. Something like looking at the same stuff from a broader, more comprehensive angle.
The
Seahawks' coaches page doesn't list a specific DB coach, so does Richard hold that role as well as DC? There are 2 new DB assistants:
Andre Curtis (safeties) was a coach with the Giants, Rams, and Saints over the previous 6 seasons.
Chris Cash (CBs) played for Pete at USC, plus 5 seasons (2 on IR) between the Lions and Falcons. He suffered too many injuries to maintain an NFL career. After that, he was DC for a high school 5 years, then 2 years as safeties coach at Florida A&M.
At this point, Sherm and Earl know the defense as well as Richard or Carroll. Lane should have the system down, but he's out. Simon has been in the system, so he should get it conceptually, but he has very little practical experience. Burley is a year in, but doesn't yet look like he's consistently able to play without thinking. Then there's the UDFA and former practice squad guys: Bailey, Terrell, and Shead, who has the most experience and is closest to borderline-starter at this point. Cary, McCray, and Tye are completely new to the system.
Out of the entire DB staff and roster, we have 2 players, the recently promoted DC, and Rocky Seto who know their responsibilities inside and out and have the skills & experience to compete at the highest level.
In the LBs case, Michael Barrow came from coaching at University of Miami (13 years), and Lofa came from watching games on TV. Both are former players, and Tatupu's familiarity with Carroll should help, but neither of them have been part of this staff, or around an NFL team for many years. At this point, I'd expect it's the players leading the way and the LB coaches getting up to speed.
We got used to the well-oiled LOB these past few seasons, but it took them and their coaches time to develop. The turmoil of an oft-injured Walter Thurmond, too-old Trufant and Milloy, and unknown Sherman was not that long ago. Here's to hoping everyone ups their game, rebounds from a lackluster week 1, and brings back the BOOM.
