Seahawks Surprising Season: From Concern to Contenders

As the NFL season kicked off, many voiced worries about the Seahawks. Even the staunchest supporters had doubts about moving away from Geno Smith, especially in favor of Sam Darnold, whose track record featured just one standout season. Coupled with the trade of DK Metcalf, it seemed like a rebuild was underway rather than a push for a Super Bowl. Turns out, we were way off. The Seahawks are not only thriving this season but are also viewed as strong candidates to take home the championship.

Delving into what’s driving the Seahawks’ success, five key factors stand out.

1. Sam Darnold’s Deep Passing

There was quite a shock when the Seahawks decided to switch quarterbacks, especially since Geno Smith had an impressive year in 2024. However, age was a factor—Smith’s arm strength was waning, leading to more short, methodical plays instead of stretching the field.

Darnold’s performance with the Vikings showed he could effectively push the ball downfield, averaging 8.4 air yards per target last season, a trend that continued after joining Seattle. This season, the passing game has managed to increase its depth, averaging an additional yard per attempt compared to the previous year. While that may seem minimal, the impact is noteworthy.

These extended throws have effectively lengthened each Seahawks drive by about two yards, resulting in more field goals and fewer punts. Consequently, the average drive score improved, climbing from 1.89 points to 2.32 points, correlating with a rise in the NFL scoring offense rankings—from 18th to 3rd.

2. Jackson Smith-Njigba’s Emergence

JSN had a solid year with Geno Smith, tallying over 1,000 yards. However, with Darnold at the helm and Metcalf no longer in the mix, he’s shown a different dimension to his game.

The Seahawks’ offense has been somewhat predictable, frequently looking to JSN for crucial yardage while relying on Metcalf for longer plays. Now, combining both elements into one player has certainly complicated defenses trying to anticipate plays.

Smith-Njigba’s yards per reception have jumped from 11.3 to 15.1, leading to an impressive increase in first downs and touchdowns. It’s a strategic resource shift too, where funds previously allocated to Metcalf can now support Darnold instead. The implications of this shift for Darnold’s performance have been significant.

3. Diverse Pass Rush

This season, the Seahawks have enhanced their ability to generate pressure through more diverse schemes. While they only notched three more sacks than last year, the distribution of those sacks has diversified substantially. Previously, a large percentage of the total came from just a couple of players. Now, the pressure comes from several spots, making it challenging for opposing offenses to identify where the blitz might come from.

This unpredictability adds a layer of complexity for offensive lines, creating a more effective defensive presence for Seattle. The blend of inside and outside pressure keeps opponents guessing, which is key for their defensive success.

4. Defensive Improvements

Surprisingly, the Seahawks’ defense has remained quite similar to last year’s, yet is performing significantly better amid tougher competition. While the addition of DeMarcus Lawrence certainly helps, it doesn’t fully explain their improvement.

• Yards allowed: 6th (up from 14th)
• Points allowed: 1st place (up from 11th)
• Passing touchdowns allowed: 7th (up from 17th)
• Rushing yards allowed: 3rd (up from 16th)

This reflects the Mike McDonald effect, as the entire unit has seen enhancements across the board. Combine that with improved quarterback play, and it’s clear why the Seahawks have emerged as frontrunners in the NFL.

5. Coaching Brilliance

Mike MacDonald has stepped up, breathing new life into the team while continuing the legacy set by Pete Carroll. His coaching style has invigorated every player, establishing him as one of the brightest young coaching talents in the league.

Seattle’s gain is quite apparent, especially as the Ravens might be regretting their decision to let him go. McDonald should be a serious contender for Manager of the Year in 2025, having transformed a mid-tier squad into a powerhouse within just a season.