The Seattle Seahawks are taking a cautious approach in the first week of 2026 free agency, reminiscent of their strategies before 2025. Instead of diving into the free-agent pool headfirst, they're holding back, possibly eyeing hidden gems down the line. But the burning question for Seahawks fans, the 12s, is whether the team is poised to improve in 2026 compared to last year.
Right now, it’s hard to say they’re better off. Losing key players like running back Kenneth Walker, edge rusher Boye Mafe, and cornerback Riq Woolen has left noticeable gaps.
The additions of backup safety Rodney Thomas and running back Emanuel Wilson don’t quite fill those voids. The Seahawks seem to be on the losing end of this free agency exchange so far.
With the NFC West being as tough as it is, any slip in performance could mean a slide to third place. The San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams were formidable opponents last season, and the 49ers, in particular, are likely to bounce back stronger with a healthier roster.
As for the playoffs, they’re still within reach for Seattle, but the margin for error is slim. If DeMarcus Lawrence were to retire, the Seahawks’ edge rush could be severely weakened, making their path even more challenging.
In nearly any other division, Seattle could still compete for the top spot, but the NFC West is unforgiving. The difference between leading and lagging is razor-thin, and there’s little room for a team that’s taken a hit in free agency.
Adding to the challenge, running back Zach Charbonnet might miss the start of next season due to an ACL injury sustained in the playoffs. This makes addressing the running back position in the NFL draft crucial, even after picking up Emanuel Wilson.
The need for another edge rusher is also evident. The current free-agent market doesn’t offer transformative options, and by the time Seattle makes its pick at No. 32, the top prospects might be off the board.
On the bright side, head coach Mike Macdonald has a knack for turning under-the-radar players into valuable contributors. And who knows? The Seahawks might just bring in someone like Jadeveon Clowney, who had a standout season with the Dallas Cowboys in 2024 and thrived under Macdonald’s guidance with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023.