The Seattle Seahawks’ 2023 season ended with a 9-8 record, missing out on the playoffs for the first time in several years. Head coach Pete Carroll’s tenure concluded with a disappointing finish as the team struggled to maintain consistency throughout the season.
Quarterback Geno Smith, who signed a lucrative three-year contract extension, experienced a dip in performance compared to his standout 2022 season. The running game faltered, the promising 2022 draft class stalled, and the defense ranked near the bottom in key statistical categories.
As the Seahawks usher in a new era with head coach Mike Macdonald, a defensive specialist with a successful track record as the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive coordinator, the team faces critical decisions on key free agents such as defensive lineman Leonard Williams, linebacker Bobby Wagner, and quarterback Drew Lock.
The Seahawks will need to address key areas of need including the offensive line, linebacker, defensive line, and safety. However, the team is currently projected to be over the salary cap, necessitating potential roster cuts and financial maneuvering.
The upcoming NFL Draft could provide an opportunity for the Seahawks to add talent and depth to their roster. Defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton from Illinois is cited as a potential first-round draft pick who could bolster the team’s interior defensive line.
Looking ahead, new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb’s aggressive passing attack philosophy could inject new life into the Seahawks’ offense, potentially leading to a resurgence in the 2024 season.
As the Seahawks prepare for a new chapter under Mike Macdonald, the team’s fan base eagerly anticipates the organization’s efforts to reposition the team for success in the years ahead.