Between now and the start of the new league year, TGS has been providing brief summaries looking ahead at the offseason from the perspective of each NFL team. In the final edition, we look at the Seattle Seahawks.
2016 record: 10-5-1 — 1st place, NFC West
What’s new? They may actually finally realize that they have to invest heavily in the offensive line. Or not.
Projected salary cap space: $27 million — Close to the middle of the pack.
Key in-house free agents: LB Michael Morgan, DT Tony McDaniel, OT Bradley Sowell
“Key” might not be the right word. Light offseason ahead for re-signings in Seattle. These are top-end depth guys who should be easy to re-sign. Same goes for tight end Luke Willson and fullback Marcel Reece.
Key needs: Offensive tackle, guard, running back, defensive tackle, linebacker
Time to start supporting Russell Wilson.
Draft breakdown: They have the No. 26 overall pick, three third-rounders, no fourth-rounder and an extra seventh-rounder.
Other potential priorities: Cornerback Deshawn Shead is a restricted free agent. He’s become a solid starter. Can’t afford to lose him.
Outlook: The Seahawks are still the Seahawks, but that disastrous pass protection really hurt them in 2016. If they can draft smartly and focus on that in free agency, they’ll have a chance to make a run with a healthier Russell Wilson in 2017.
