The Seattle Seahawks have been known for their defensive intensity and high-flying offense in the past. However, in recent seasons, something has been missing. The team that once looked poised for dynasty status has lost its edge, plagued by player fit, scheme, and coaching issues. From draft picks to free agent signings, each decision has contributed to the Seahawks’ current situation, leaving fans to question whether general manager John Schneider is helping or holding the team back.
Since Schneider’s hiring in 2010, the Seahawks have certainly seen success, with playoff appearances in nearly every season but four between 2010-2023. However, since their Super Bowl XLIX loss to New England, they haven’t been able to rekindle their dominance, struggling in the postseason. Key Players who helped shape the Seahawks’ identity—like Earl Thomas, Richard Sherman, Marshawn Lynch, and Russell Wilson—have departed, as well as former head coach Pete Carroll, and each loss has highlighted the team’s struggle to maintain a cohesive culture.
John Schneider and the Seahawks’ Future: What Needs to Change?
One of the most recent issues has been the Seahawks’ inability to maximize player potential. This challenge has roots in both Schneider’s draft strategy and the coaching staff’s approach to player development. While Seattle hit on several early draft picks like Kam Chancellor, Richard Sherman, and Bobby Wagner, who defined the team’s “Legion of Boom” era, the years since have been a downturn. For instance, only 13 of Seattle’s 135 draft picks since 2020 have made the Pro Bowl (listed below). Though some of these players have excelled, recent drafts haven’t produced the depth or impact needed to compete at a high level.
Draft picks who became pro bowlers:
- OT Russell Okung (first round)
- S Earl Thomas (first round)
- CB Devon Witherspoon (first round)
- LB Bobby Wagner (second round)
- WR D.K. Metcalf (second round)
- QB Russell Wilson (third round)
- WR Tyler Lockett (third round)
- CB Shaquill Griffin (third round)
- LB K.J. Wright (fourth round)
- S Kam Chancellor (fifth round)
- CB Richard Sherman (fifth round)
- P Michael Dickson (fifth round)
- CB Riq Woolen (fifth round)
John Schneider needs to get the Seahawks back on track
Misses in the draft, such as in selecting offensive linemen or pass rushers, have impacted the Seahawks’ ability to compete effectively. Furthermore, they have made some questionable decisions such as drafting two running backs in the second round back-to-back in 2022 and 2023. Sure, every team has its hits and misses but Seattle’s biggest issue has been developing young talent into reliable contributors.
The free agency and trade markets have similarly produced mixed results. Notable additions like Chris Clemons and Cliff Avril in 2013 bolstered the defense, while more recent acquisitions haven’t yet produced the hoped-for impact. Trades have also been a gamble, with deals for players like Jimmy Graham failing to produce the expected long-term payoff, while others like Quandre Diggs and Leonard Williams have brought reliable performances. Notably, the blockbuster trade for Jamal Adams in 2020 came at a high cost, leading fans to question if Schneider’s moves reflect a clear vision for the team or a tendency to overcommit on short-term gains.
The struggle to develop young players and limited production suggests that the problem may be with scheme fit or coaching rather than raw talent.
The scheme and coaching decisions have also been inconsistent. Since Schneider and Carroll built the “Legion of Boom,” the Seahawks haven’t re-established a unifying team identity, leading to struggles on both offense and defense. This loss of identity, some argue, reflects a coaching staff stuck between philosophies—unable to adapt to a modern offense while still relying on aging defensive schemes. The Seahawks decided it was time to part ways with Carroll, but with Schneider still in charge, there’s debate about whether his vision aligns with the team’s future needs.
The Seattle Seahawks have struggled to re-create the magic of their early 2010s success, and while they have some of the pieces needed to build a contender, questions about leadership remain. Drafting, free agency, and trades reflect a disconnect between acquiring talent and integrating it effectively into the team. While the struggles stem from a combination of player fit, coaching issues, and ineffective schemes, the responsibility ultimately falls on John Schneider to implement the changes necessary to rebuild a cohesive team identity and guide the franchise back to championship contention.
Main Image: Joe Nicholson – USA Today Sports
