Nick Emani’s status looms large as Seattle faces an uncertain short-term future after a high ankle sprain was elevated to week-to-week, potentially triggering an IR move and prompting roster shuffles at safety with DeAnthony Bell stepping up. The offense showed uneven rhythm, with Sam Darnold delivering a clean, quick-release performance but a near-absent play-action plan and inconsistent run blocking. Defensively, Drake Thomas and Tyrese Knight provide wrinkles in the will linebacker role, while Abraham Lucas and the O-line overall held up in pass protection. Special teams were a bright spot, adding stability as Seattle pivots toward the Steelers.

Seattle's depth at safety will be tested in the near term, forcing schematic tweaks and heavier loads for Bell. Offensively, the return of Dariq Young and Jake Bobo could help, but improvement hinges on more play-action and improved zone-blocking execution to unlock the run game. On the defensive front, the interior line flashed, yet rotations will need refinement as teams adapt without Emani. Special teams’ sharp start could be a foundation to carry forward in a tough Week 2 matchup.