By Mazvita Maraire Posted on

HAWKMANIA Hot Take :Seahawks will return to the playoffs

Why the Seahawks will make the playoffs in 2025:

First, the Seahawks’ defense is expected to continue its upward trajectory due to the addition of key players from the draft and some notable free agents.

 Second-round pick Nick Emmanwori is one of those huge additions to the defense that they did not have last year. He is a strong, quick, and versatile defender.   His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, including safety, slot corner, and even linebacker.

VERSATILITY A STRENGTH

This adaptability makes him a valuable asset to Mike Macdonald’s defense.  He can be deployed in various roles, utilizing deception to counter modern offensive strategies. He has a combination of physical talent, a historic college production, and positional versatility that positions him as a strong candidate for a strong rookie campaign with the team. 

KEY SIGNINGS

In addition to drafting well and adding key free agents, the Seahawks retained two key players to stabilize their defense. The team has re-signed Defensive Lineman Jarren Reed and middle linebacker Ernest Jones. Reed demonstrated great leadership, and Jones was a vital midseason acquisition that served as the catalyst for the team’s defensive turnaround. Jones became the MIC linebacker, and his play-calling ability was vital in the team’s ability to stop the run.

Former All-Pro Demarcus  Lawrence was also brought in to bring depth, strength, and experience. Lawrence will battle Dre’Mont Jones for a starting position. The overall defense last season ranked 11th in points allowed, and there is optimism that they can recapture their post-bye dominance from 2025, with the right combination of health, coaching adjustments, and rival missteps.


KEY OFFENSIVE ADDITIONS

The Seahawks’ offense underwent a significant makeover. Sam Darnold was signed to replace  Geno Smith, and Klint Kubiak replaced Ryan Grubb as the team’s offensive coordinator . Some key factors influencing the Seahawks’ playoff chances. Darnold and  Kubiak have connections. Darnold has familiarity with Klint Kubiak’s offensive scheme and system. Both of these could lead to a more cohesive and effective offense, notably if Darnold can maintain the form he played in the 2024 NFL season. This could be a significant factor in the team’s success.

OFFENSIVE LINE DEVELOPMENT

Everyone is aware that the Seahawks’ offensive line struggled in 2024, and the need for the unit to improve significantly.  Health and performance from key players like Abraham Lucas and rookie Grey Zabel will be important for this upcoming season.  Zabel looked and played the part in the OTAs, as did Charles Cross, Lucas, Olu Oluwatimi, and  Charles Bradford, who is battling Christian Haynes for the right guard position.

DIVISIONAL REGRESSION

 The Seahawks will need some regression from the 49ers, Cardinals and Rams to have a good shot at making the playoffs as the Division winner.  The Los Angeles Rams and  49ers remain strong on paper, but the 49ers have the easiest schedule in the upcoming season.  Both teams are coached by seasoned coaches who have a history of beating the Seahawks. The Seahawks split the season series with both teams last year and must do so this year if they are to make the postseason.

STRENGTH OF SCHEDULE

 Seattle’s schedule is considered the 12th-easiest in the NFL.  The strength of schedule is calculated by combining the winning percentages of each team’s opponents from the previous season. This is often referred to as the “Strength of Schedule” (SOS). This may bring some opportunities for quality wins, especially in the latter half of the season when the Seahawks take on the Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons. Indianapolis Colts.

Luke Wenberg, CEO and Co-Owner of HawkMania LLC.

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