Thwapmastre
Contributor
Football is back!
Another year, a new owner, and another season full of hope and anticipation for football fans in the Emerald City. Last year, the Seahawks made a fantastic run in the regular season, going 13-3 and saving thousands from attempting suicide. That run, however, came to a devastating halt after Seattle failed to capitalize on their home field advantage and exited the tournament much earlier than expected. (Suicide rate.....^spiked^)
2017 is another chance for the Seahawks and for the city of Seattle to recapture the glory of 2013 and bring home another championship. The defense is bringing back all 11 of its starters, although much of the second team is new including rookie OLB Jalen Reeves-Maybin and 3 free agent CBs including Brandon flowers and Alterraun Verner.
A lot has changed on the offense that only includes 1 starter from 2016 on the O-line. Rookie sensation Germain Ifedi will resume his role at right guard. 1st round pick Mike Mcglinchey will anchor a revamped rushing attack that will include 3 other rookies. (More on that later.) Free agents Austin Pasztor, Vladimir Ducasse, and Brian Schwenk, will start at LT, LG and C respectively.
The 'Hawks drafted blocking TE Hunter Sabri, FB Layne Coe and star HB Nick Chubb in an obvious attempt bolster the running game. Coe is considered the best FB in the draft and Chubb has superstar potential. However, the offensive line will remain a question mark until Seattle proves that they can produce on the ground and protect their quarterback.
Russell Wilson should have another great year throwing the ball as all of his favorite targets will be returning including TE Jimmy Graham and WRs Doug Baldwin, Javon Kearse and Tyler Lockett.
In 2017, the Seahawks may not expect to win another 13 games, but a playoff run seems imminent and a championship is certainly not out of reach.
Prediction: 11-5 1st, NFC West
- John Boyle, digital media reporter