The Seahawks are sending two players, cornerback Devon Witherspoon and defensive lineman Leonard Williams, to this week’s Pro Bowl Games. But they won’t be the only ones representing the team in Orlando. Maurice Kelly, the team’s vice president of player affairs with 20 years of experience, will also head to the Pro Bowl as part of the NFC coaching staff led by Eli Manning.
Kelly, one of two heads of player engagement on the NFC staff alongside Carolina’s Kevin Winston, will be attending his third Pro Bowl in this role, which focuses on helping players navigate the logistics of the event.
“It’s really like herding cats, that’s what I do there,” Kelly joked. “I just make sure the guys get from Point A to Point B, acting as a liaison for them. There are a lot of moving parts—skills competitions, community events, and game practices—so it’s all about making sure they know where they need to be and answering any questions they have.”
The Pro Bowl also serves as an opportunity for Kelly to connect with others in similar roles around the league. “It’s always good to connect with counterparts, because we all face different challenges. If I’m dealing with something now, someone else may face the same issue in a few years,” he explained.
Known as “Mo” by players and colleagues, Kelly plays a crucial behind-the-scenes role in supporting players. While he occasionally receives recognition from Seahawks general manager John Schneider or head coach Mike Macdonald, his work often goes unnoticed outside the Virginia Mason Athletic Center.
Kelly’s office, located near the players’ locker room, is a place where players come for advice, a listening ear, or help facilitating conversations with others. He’s the go-to person for anything players need, whether it’s guidance for life outside football or connections to other resources.
“My role is to bridge the gap between the players, coaches, and front office, and to help players transition both into and out of the game,” Kelly said. “It’s about guiding them through the highs and lows of their careers, from the logistics of joining the team to navigating family issues, injuries, and the mental health challenges that come with being a professional athlete.”
Reflecting on his own playing days, Kelly noted how the resources available to players have evolved. “When I played, Nesby Glasgow was the player programs guy. It was good, but nothing like what we have now. Today, we have more resources to help players with both football and life,” he said. “The most important thing is to listen. Sometimes, players just need to say things out loud. Knowing that they have support and resources available to them is what matters most.”
While Kelly is putting in extra work at the Pro Bowl, he’s not the only Seahawks staff member doing so this week. Assistant wide receivers coach Tyson Prince will be in Mobile, Alabama, coaching receivers for the National Team at the Senior Bowl.
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