The Seattle Seahawks just capped off a historic season, hoisting the Lombardi Trophy for only the second time in franchise history. It was the kind of campaign that reminded fans why they believe in this team year after year-a balanced roster, smart coaching, and a defense that made big plays when it mattered most.
But as is always the case in the NFL, success comes with a price tag. And for general manager John Schneider, the offseason ahead is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal of his tenure.
The Seahawks are staring down a roster crunch. Several key contributors, especially among the younger core, are hitting the end of their rookie deals.
That means tough decisions are coming-who to keep, who to let walk, and who might be better off getting a fresh start elsewhere. Some choices are straightforward.
Others? Not so much.
Let’s break down three Seahawks who may have played their final snap in a Seattle uniform-even though one of them isn’t technically a free agent.
Riq Woolen - Cornerback
Riq Woolen came into this season with a chance to cash in. A big year in his walk season could’ve made him a priority re-signing for Seattle. But instead of elevating his game, Woolen took a step back-and it was a noticeable one.
He was flagged for a career-high 11 penalties, a couple of which came at truly inopportune moments. His coverage numbers dipped too, allowing a 93.8 passer rating when targeted-another career worst.
And then came the postseason. While he had his moments, Woolen gave up three touchdown passes across the NFC Championship and Super Bowl.
That’s not the kind of stat line you want attached to your name when your team is chasing a ring.
One play that stood out-and not in a good way-was the taunting penalty against the Rams in the NFC title game. That flag kept a drive alive, and on the very next play, Matthew Stafford went right at Woolen for a touchdown. It was a moment that summed up the frustrations with his season: flashes of talent, but too often overshadowed by lapses in discipline and consistency.
Woolen still has the tools. He’s long, fast, and instinctive when he’s locked in. But if Seattle’s coaching staff doesn’t believe he can clean up the mental side of his game, it might be time to move on.
Josh Jones - Offensive Tackle
Josh Jones isn’t a household name, but he played a quiet, important role down the stretch. When starting left tackle Charles Cross went down late in the year, Jones stepped in from Weeks 16 through 18 and held his own. He gave up some pressures and a couple of sacks, but considering the level of competition he faced, he was serviceable.
The issue with Jones isn’t talent-it’s availability. Early in the season, he wasn’t healthy enough to be active.
And by the time the playoffs rolled around, ankle and knee issues had him sidelined again. That forced Seattle to turn to undrafted rookie Amari Kight, who, to his credit, played well under pressure.
Jones has bounced around the league as a backup, and when healthy, he can absolutely be a plug-and-play option. But reliability matters, especially in the trenches.
If the Seahawks are going to carry a swing tackle on the roster, they need someone who can suit up when it counts. Jones hasn’t proven he can be that guy consistently.
Jalen Milroe - Quarterback
Let’s be clear: Jalen Milroe isn’t being shown the door because of anything he did wrong. In fact, his talent is undeniable. Drafted in the third round in 2025, Milroe came in as a high-upside developmental prospect-an electric athlete with a cannon for an arm and the kind of mobility that makes defensive coordinators sweat.
In training camp, he turned heads with his athleticism. But accuracy and decision-making were still a work in progress.
That showed during the regular season, where his limited snaps were almost exclusively designed runs. The results?
Mixed at best.
The real issue for Milroe is the guy ahead of him on the depth chart. Sam Darnold didn’t just manage the offense-he thrived.
He played the best football of his career, and at this point, he looks like the long-term answer under center. That leaves Milroe in a tough spot.
He’s not getting meaningful reps, and with Darnold entrenched as the starter, there’s no clear path to playing time.
Seattle needs draft capital. Milroe could bring back a mid-to-late round pick or two, and more importantly, he could land with a team willing to develop him with a real shot at starting down the line. It’s not about giving up on a player-it’s about maximizing value for both sides.
The Seahawks are riding high after a championship run, but the NFL doesn’t pause for celebrations. The front office has a tightrope to walk-keeping the core intact while making smart, forward-thinking moves. Whether it's parting ways with a former starter, moving on from a depth piece, or trading a young QB with upside, every decision will shape what this team looks like in 2026 and beyond.
One thing is certain: the bar has been raised in Seattle. Now comes the hard part-staying on top.