Seahawks Defense: The 'Biggest Question' for Next Season?
For some, the Seattle Seahawks have had one of the better offseasons in the NFL, as they have added some personnel to key areas. But despite the feel-good factor for the Seahawks, some still aren't sold on the defense.
Seattle ranked 25th in the NFL last season for points allowed per game (23.6), and drafted cornerback Devon Witherspoon while signing Dre'Mont Jones and bringing back Bobby Wagner to address this. But is this enough for the Seahawks to take a step forward on that side of the ball?
NFL.com has listed the Seahawks' defensive improvement as one of the biggest question marks hanging over the franchise.
"The Seahawks never looked worse defensively under (coach Pete) Carroll than last season, and there are still questions about how sturdy they will be up front," NFL.com writes. Seattle fielded the third-worst run defense in the league. They also lacked a dominant pass-rushing presence. The Seahawks did address some of those issues by adding a major free-agent acquisition in defensive end Dre'Mont Jones, but they didn't snag D-line help with either of their two first-round picks.
"Currently, there's a lot to like about the Seattle secondary. That unit will have Witherspoon and 2022 rookie sensation Tariq Woolen at cornerback, with safety being manned by Julian Love, Quandre Diggs and Jamal Adams. Middle linebacker Bobby Wagner is back, and the team is hoping Jordyn Brooks can make a strong recovery from a torn ACL sustained in January.
So, while most of the offseason focus has been on the offense with Geno Smith's improvement, coupled with receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and running back Zach Charbonnet coming into the fold, Seattle still has some defensive uncertainties.
Many expect improvement from a unit that gave up 27 or more points six times last season (including two 40-point games) and also gave up 100-plus rushing yards in all but four games last year, including the postseason.
It's understandable to imagine that defense will be a heavy focus for Carroll and Co. this offseason as the Seahawks look to improve on last season's accomplishment.
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