2024 Season Recap: A Bitter Sweet 10-7
Mike Macdonald’s inaugural season as the Seattle Seahawks’ head coach saw the team post a respectable 10-7 record, finishing second in the NFC West. However, for Seahawks fans, this outcome felt more like a letdown than a triumph. Seattle had a golden opportunity to clinch the division but faltered in critical moments, particularly in the latter part of the season. Despite their winning record, the Seahawks fell short of a playoff berth for the second consecutive year, adding to the growing frustration among the fan base. The team’s inability to capitalize on their momentum and secure a postseason spot highlights the challenges Macdonald faces in his second year at the helm.
Shuffling the Deck: Major Offseason Moves
The offseason has brought significant changes to the Seahawks’ lineup. One of the most notable moves was the trade of Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, where he will reunite with former Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll. This trade marks the end of an era for Seattle, as Smith had been a reliable, albeit inconsistent, presence under center. Additionally, the Seahawks released ten-year veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett on March 5, a decision that sent shockwaves through the organization and its fans. Reports suggest that DK Metcalf, another key receiver, has also requested a trade, adding to the team’s roster flux. The releases and potential trades have cleared a significant amount of salary cap space but have left the team in a position where they need to retool several critical positions.
Assessing the Talent: A Team on the Fence
Evaluating the Seahawks’ roster is a bit perplexing. On one hand, the team boasts a wealth of talent and has recorded three consecutive winning seasons. On the other, they have only made one playoff appearance in that span and have yet to taste postseason victory. This dichotomy suggests that Seattle doesn’t need a full rebuild but rather a strategic overhaul to break through to the next level. The team has shown promise but must address key areas to achieve sustained success. Macdonald and his staff are tasked with finding the right balance of experienced veterans and promising young talent to elevate the Seahawks’ performance.
NFLPA Report Card: Moderate Satisfaction
According to the NFLPA report card, the Seahawks rank 15th among NFL teams in terms of player satisfaction. While there are some areas where players would like improvements, such as the training facilities, the overall feedback is generally positive. The team has already announced plans for renovations to the training and tub room, which should address some of the players’ concerns and potentially improve the ranking. The players’ willingness to stay and the team’s effort to enhance their environment are positive signs for the future, indicating a commitment to continuous improvement.
Free Agency Focus: High-Stakes Decisions
The Seahawks have several key free agents to consider, including linebacker Ernest Jones IV, guard Laken Tomlinson, and defensive tackle Jarran Reed. Jones, who arrived via midseason trade in 2024, quickly became an integral part of the defense. His potential re-signing is a top priority for Seattle, despite the team’s salary cap constraints. If Jones is retained, it might mean that starters like Tomlinson and Reed will be playing elsewhere, as the team allocates cap space to its most pressing needs. The decision to bring back or let go of these players will have a significant impact on the roster’s composition and the team’s performance in the coming season.
Roster Needs and Financial Constraints
Beyond the evident need for a quarterback following Geno Smith’s departure, the Seahawks are facing potential shortages at wide receiver and tight end. The release of Tyler Lockett and the trade rumors swirling around DK Metcalf have left the team’s receiving corps in flux. Jaxon Smith-Njigba emerged as Seattle’s WR1 in 2024, and if Metcalf is traded, JSN’s value will skyrocket even further. The offensive line, particularly the interior, has been a long-standing issue for Seattle, and addressing this weakness is crucial for the team’s success. On the defensive side, adding a difference-maker or two in the trenches could solidify the Seahawks’ defense.
Draft Strategy: Targeting a Lineman
The Seahawks hold the 18th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, along with several picks in subsequent rounds. Given the team’s longstanding issues with the offensive line, it would be wise for Seattle to select the best available lineman. Tyler Booker, an offensive guard from Alabama, stands out as a potential fit. His combination of size, strength, and versatility could help bolster a line that has struggled for years. While there are other pressing needs, ensuring a solid foundation up front is essential for the Seahawks to field a competitive team moving forward. The draft will be a critical opportunity for Seattle to address these holes and set the stage for a more promising 2025 season.
