At a Glance
- Stephanie Macdonald cheered for three NFL teams across eight seasons
- She met future husband Mike Macdonald while both worked for the Baltimore Ravens in 2015
- The couple married in 2021 and welcomed son Jack in December 2024
- Why it matters: Her transition from cheerleader to coach’s wife shows how NFL families evolve across franchises
Stephanie Macdonald, wife of Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald, brings her own NFL pedigree to the Pacific Northwest after an eight-year cheerleading career with three different franchises.
The couple’s story began in October 2015 when both worked for the Baltimore Ravens organization. Mike served as defensive coordinator while Stephanie performed as a Ravens cheerleader. During a December 2022 appearance on The Purple Chair Podcast, Stephanie revealed they initially met in passing without realizing his coaching role. When she discovered his position, she immediately told him, “We can’t do this.”
Their relationship timeline accelerated after the 2015 season concluded. Since it marked Stephanie’s final year with the Ravens squad, they reconnected in March 2016 and began dating.
From Hokie to Professional Cheerleader
Stephanie’s football roots trace back to Virginia Tech, where she cheered while earning her bachelor’s degree in communication with a sociology minor, graduating in 2010. Born in Annapolis, Maryland, she spent most of her childhood in Fredericksburg, Virginia, maintaining her Hokie pride throughout her professional career.
Her NFL cheerleading journey spanned three franchises over eight seasons:
- Tennessee Titans
- Baltimore Ravens
- Washington Commanders
Each organization held special significance, but her 2014 Pro Bowl selection as a Ravens cheerleader stands as her favorite career moment. Beyond dancing, Stephanie showcased her vocal talents by performing the National Anthem before a Commanders game.
Professional Life Beyond the Field
According to her LinkedIn profile, Stephanie has held various sales roles alongside her cheerleading career. Her diverse professional background demonstrates how NFL cheerleaders often balance multiple careers while maintaining demanding performance schedules.
The couple’s engagement came in summer 2019, with Stephanie announcing the news on X (formerly Twitter) that July. They exchanged vows in 2021, as confirmed by the University of Michigan Athletics website.
Supporting Her Husband’s Career Journey
Stephanie has remained Mike’s biggest supporter throughout his coaching progression. In January 2022, she posted an emotional message on X reflecting on their Michigan experience after his defensive coordinator tenure there.
“@MikeMacUM just wanted to say thank you for bringing me to one of the greatest cities in the world, for letting me share the excitement with you, and for making me feel loved & appreciated during one of the most chaotic & rewarding years of our lives,” she wrote. “I love you. #ForeverGoBlue.”
When Mike became Seahawks head coach in 2024, he praised his wife during his introductory press conference, calling her an “absolute rock star” and predicting “the city will fall in love with her,” per the Seahawks website.
Stephanie reciprocated the enthusiasm after the press conference, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome. “Walking in and having that warm welcome, I’m like ‘Alright, this is where we’re meant to be,'” she said.
New Chapter as Parents
The couple’s family expanded in December 2024 with son Jack’s arrival. Mike announced the birth during a press conference the following day.
“Well, I guess the cat’s out of the bag by now,” he said. “But Steph had our boy last night, and both are happy and healthy. Man, It’s a crazy statement to say out loud, but we’re really excited and really blessed, obviously.”
He concluded by praising his wife’s strength during childbirth, remarking, “What women can do is just an unbelievable thing. What a warrior she is, and she’s awesome.”
Key Takeaways
Stephanie Macdonald’s journey from Virginia Tech cheerleader to NFL wife demonstrates the interconnected nature of football families. Her eight-year professional cheerleading career with three franchises provides unique insight into league culture. The couple’s story highlights how relationships can flourish despite initial workplace complications, ultimately creating a family that spans multiple NFL cities and experiences.
