To do so, the Seahawks will need to address several key areas if they hope to contend in the competitive NFC West division. Here are three of the most important factors to watch for heading into the 2021 season:
1. Improved Pass Protection
One of the biggest issues plaguing the Seahawks in recent years has been their inconsistent pass protection. Quarterback Russell Wilson has been sacked more times than any other quarterback in the league since joining the team in 2012, and the offensive line struggled to keep him upright last season.
To address this issue, the Seahawks made several moves in the offseason to shore up their offensive line. They signed veteran guard Gabe Jackson to help solidify the interior, drafted tackle Stone Forsythe in the sixth round, and retained center Ethan Pocic.
In addition, the Seahawks are hopeful that left tackle Duane Brown will once again be one of the best in the league. If the offensive line can give Wilson more time to make his reads and deliver the ball, it could go a long way towards improving the team’s overall performance.
2. Strong Secondary Play
The Seahawks have long been known for their elite secondary, which has been anchored by All-Pro safety Jamal Adams and shutdown cornerbacks Richard Sherman and Shaquill Griffin in recent years. However, both Sherman and Griffin have departed in the offseason, leaving the team with some holes to fill.
To address this, the Seahawks brought in veteran cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon and used their first draft pick on cornerback Tre Brown. They also have high hopes for 2019 draft pick Marquise Blair, who missed last season with an ACL injury.
If the new additions can help fill the void left by Sherman and Griffin, and Adams can continue to be a force near the line of scrimmage, the Seahawks could once again have one of the best secondaries in the league.
3. Consistent Running Game
The Seahawks have traditionally been a run-first team under head coach Pete Carroll, and the success of their ground game has often been a key to their success. However, that formula faltered last season, as the team ranked just 23rd in rushing yards per game.
To improve in this area, the Seahawks brought in running back Rashaad Penny and signed veteran back Chris Carson to a new contract. They also have high hopes for second-year back DeeJay Dallas, who showed promise in limited action last season.
If the Seahawks can establish a consistent ground game and take some of the burden off of Wilson’s shoulders, it could go a long way towards improving the team’s overall performance.
Overall, the 2021 season will be a pivotal one for the Seattle Seahawks. With a talented roster and several key areas to address, the team will need to perform at a high level if they hope to contend in the competitive NFC West. If they can do so, the Seahawks could be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.