A bold Seahawks prediction has a weakness from the past couple of years turning into a massive strength during the 2025 season

Seahawks defense predicted to take a giant step forward this season 

"Hot Take: Seattle finishes top-8 in three major defensive categories: yards, points allowed, and EPA/play

I am buying Mike Macdonald in Year 2 of his scheme in Seattle. The Seahawks finished last season 8th in total defensive EPA, 11th in points allowed, and 14th in yards allowed. The bold bet here is not that Seattle will be well represented in any one of these three categories, but that they will be consistent enough on defense to be well represented in all three.

Macdonald, in his second season, plus a well-invested defensive front and a much more settled linebacker group than he had last year, should set the stage for Seattle to hit the ground running. The season outlook in Seattle lies in how well they get on with an offensive overhaul, but I’m willing to bet the defense carries the Seahawks into contention."

- NFC West Hot Takes

In 2024, only three defenses were in the top eight in total yards and points allowed: the Philadelphia Eagles, Green Bay Packers, and the Denver Broncos. So, to accomplish being top eight in those two areas is an incredible feat. If the Seahawks could do that, they would be discussed in the same breath as some of the elite defenses in the NFL. 

Having their defense play at that level would help take the pressure off the Seahawks' new look offense With Sam Darnold signed to start at QB after trading Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders. The Seahawks finished just one game out of the playoffs a year ago, but you have to assume that won't happen again in 2025 if their defense takes this giant of a step forward.