Rhodes is known for improving the defenses he works with, but also relying on zone schemes that can bend to the point of breaking. The Seahawks suffered losses under his watch that were predicated on "prevent defenses", passive zone schemes in which the idea was to allow short late gains. The most graphic example came in a 2004 loss to the St. Louis Rams at Qwest Field. The Seahawks enjoyed a 27-10 lead with 8:42 left in regulation, but the Rams scored 23 unanswered points and won the game in overtime.

However, Rhodes also used his great feel for defensive personnel to help the Seahawks land players such as Marcus Trufant and Lofa Tatupu.

Rhodes played receiver and cornerback for the New York Giants from 1974-1979, and the San Francisco 49ers in 1980. His coaching career began in 1981, when he was named the 49ers' assistant secondary coach. He has been the defensive coordinator for five teams (San Francisco, Green Bay, Washington, Denver, Seattle). Rhodes amassed a 29-34-1 record as the Philadelphia Eagles' head coach from 1995-1998, and an 8-8 record as the Packers' head coach in 1999.

The 57-year-old Rhodes will work with defensive coordinator Richard Smith and secondary coach John Hoke.