Seattle Seahawks 2018-19 - NFL Season Preview & Future Odds Predictions

The Seattle Seahawks are coming off a 9-7 season which saw them run with less frequency offense and suffocated opposing offenses less often on defense. Change has been the order of business for the Seahawks during the offseason. Seattle parted ways with Richard Sherman, Jimmy Graham and Michael Bennett, while Cliff Avril was released and Kam Chancellor appeared ready to retire due to injuries. Coaches were changed as well with six new assistants joining the staff including new offensive and defensive coordinators.

Quarterback Russell Wilson remains the focus of the offense, but the team has tried to revive the running attack with a new backfield since Wilson led the team in rushing last season becoming the first QB to do so since the Eagles’ Randall Cunningham. Wilson tied his career high with 34 touchdown passes last season, but ran more than coaches wanted.

To help running game Seattle drafted Rashaad Penny from San Diego State with its pick in the first round. Penny is big, but has the speed to score from anywhere evidenced by seven kickoff return touchdowns while in college. Center Justin Britt and left tackle Duane Brown received big contract extensions, which helps with both rush and pass blocking. The one newcomer is right guard D.J. Fluker who will be strong at run blocking but his pass blocking could become suspect. Ethan Pocic returns at right guard.

Doug Baldwin is the biggest receiving threat on Seahawks team, while Seattle replaced Graham with free agent Ed Dickson at tight end. Tyler Lockett and Jaron Brown will battle to be Wilson’s second option down field. Brandon Marshall was signed as insurance for the Seahawks as the veteran wide receiver is coming off season ending ankle surgery.

In 2017, the Seahawks defense gave up 332 points, which were the most in the last seven seasons. Only Earl Thomas is left from the Seahawks famed secondary. Cornerback Shaquill Griffin returns after a strong rookie season, while Dontae Johnson was brought in and Bradley McDougald returns as well. Look for opposing offenses to go after this secondary.

Seattle needed a pass rush after last season and signed Tom Johnson from the Vikings at defensive tackle and former Colts end/linebacker Barkevious Mingo. Jarran Reed is Seattle’s best returning defensive lineman and Frank Clark took over for the departed Bennett.

Linebacker is the strongest part of the Seahawks defense with K.J. Wright and Bobby Wagner returning and both will play every down. The addition of Mingo will help when he lines up outside as a backer on running downs and an end on passing downs. Shaquem Griffin was drafted and is the twin brother of Shaquill and his speed could make an immediate impact for the defense.