The Seattle Seahawks' defense ended the 2024 season on a solid note, showcasing considerable progress under head coach Mike Macdonald. Following a Week 10 bye, the unit allowed fewer than 19 points per game, establishing them as one of the best defenses in football during their final seven games. Prominent players like Leonard Williams, Devon Witherspoon, Ernest Jones IV, and Riq Woolen will return, supported by new additions such as Nick Emmanwori and DeMarcus Lawrence.

Despite their late-season success, critiques highlight the soft schedule they faced, along with disappointing performances against high-powered offenses like the Packers and Vikings. Analysts expect the Seahawks' defense to build on this momentum for the upcoming season, with aspirations of breaking out in 2025, given their promising talent pool and depth.

John's fantasy football analysis shines a spotlight on three key players: Jonnu Smith, DK Metcalf, and Pat Freiermuth. Following the recent trade involving the Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins, Smith's potential has surged. His transition to the Dolphins offers him a fresh start, which could see him become a pivotal target, especially in the red zone.

DK Metcalf remains a powerhouse receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, his combination of size and speed making him a consistent threat. Despite some fluctuations in performance, he's expected to be a top option, especially with the Seahawks focusing on a balanced offensive strategy.

Pat Freiermuth continues to establish his presence as a reliable tight end for the Steelers. With the shifting dynamics of the team post-trade, his role could expand, making him a valuable asset in both standard and PPR leagues. With these factors in play, all three players are set to have significant impacts in the upcoming season.

In the first seven rounds of fantasy football drafts, savvy players can still land impactful wide receivers despite initially selecting a running back. Tee Higgins is a standout option for those looking to bolster their receiving corps with top-20 potential. Other emerging talents include Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Garrett Wilson, both of whom have shown considerable promise. With the right strategy, fantasy managers can build a formidable roster that balances running backs and receivers effectively.

Entering the 2025 season, the NFC West backup quarterback rankings showcase a mix of seasoned veterans and young talents. Leading the list is Jimmy Garoppolo of the Los Angeles Rams, who, despite limited play last year, has a proven track record, having led the 49ers to a Super Bowl. Following him is Jacoby Brissett, now with the Arizona Cardinals, known for his remarkable interception rate, making him a reliable backup. Mac Jones of the San Francisco 49ers and Drew Lock of the Seattle Seahawks round out the rankings, both having struggled with turnovers, raising questions about their effectiveness in critical moments.

This offseason has seen significant changes, with the Rams retaining Garoppolo while the Cardinals acquired Brissett and the 49ers brought in Jones. The Seahawks opted to re-sign Lock, hoping for better performances compared to his previous stints. As teams look to solidify their quarterback depth, these backups will play crucial roles in their respective offenses, especially in cases of injury or underperformance by starters.

The Seattle Seahawks are keen on enhancing their pass rush, with notable additions and potential trades on the horizon. With a strong showing in the previous season, finishing tied for eighth in the league with 45 sacks, the Seahawks are bolstered by the talent of Leonard Williams and newly signed DeMarcus Lawrence. However, concerns linger regarding Lawrence's age and the health of Uchenna Nwosu. With Boye Mafe entering a critical contract year and the emergence of Derick Hall, the Seahawks may explore trading for T.J. Watt to secure a long-term solution at edge rusher.

Given Watt's prowess as a perennial Pro Bowler and defensive anchor for the Pittsburgh Steelers, acquiring him could solidify the Seahawks' defense. It would require strategic planning from GM John Schneider, especially considering the potential trade cost versus the risk of losing homegrown talents like Mafe. As the team navigates these complexities, fans eagerly await updates on their plans.