The 2026 NFL free agency period has delivered its usual mix of excitement and intrigue, with teams making strategic moves to bolster their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. As the frenzy begins to calm, analysts are diving into the details to evaluate how each team has fared.
Free agency is a critical time for NFL franchises. It provides an opportunity to bring in talent without the complications of a trade, allowing teams to fill gaps and strengthen their lineups before the draft kicks off in April.
One of the more surprising evaluations comes from the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Seattle Seahawks, who received a D+ for their free agency efforts. This grade raises eyebrows, considering their recent success on the field.
The critique centers around Seattle's handling of Rashid Shaheed. The Seahawks seem to believe they were responsible for Shaheed's slow start in Seattle, but committing $51 million under those circumstances is questionable, especially with Klint Kubiak-whose New Orleans connection brought Shaheed to Seattle-now with the Raiders.
Moreover, the decision to retain Cooper Kupp, despite his decline in performance last year, is puzzling. Kupp finished outside the top 50 wideouts in yards per route run in 2025, which makes his retention a head-scratcher.
The Seahawks' approach to their running back situation also draws criticism. Letting Kenneth Walker III leave might not be the issue, but failing to pursue another strong option raises concerns.
Affordable deals for players like Rico Dowdle, Chris Rodriguez, and Keaton Mitchell were out there-moves Seattle could have matched. Instead, they opted for Emanuel Wilson at $2.1 million, a decision that leaves fans and analysts alike questioning the team’s strategy.
As we await the draft, the Seahawks have some reflecting to do. Their decisions in free agency will be scrutinized as they look to maintain their championship form.