Seattle Seahawks safety Julian Love. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Seahawks' already-dominant defense set to get stronger for stretch run

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Dec 6, 2025 5:36 PM ET

Headed into Week 14 of the NFL season, the strength of the Seattle Seahawks success thus far has been their dominant defense.

The already-dominant defense ranks in the top three in both rushing yards and points allowed per game this season, and it is getting multiple reinforcements for the remainder of the campaign.

Multiple starters returning in Week 14

According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Seattle is activating both defensive tackle Jarran Reed and safety Julian Love. Both Reed and Love have been on injured reserve but will be returning to action in Week 14.

Love has missed more time of the two, as he's appeared in just three games this season. In his limited action, he's collected 18 tackles, two passes defended and one sack.

Reed has appeared in eight games, collecting 17 tackles and 1.5 sacks in his time on the field.

With Julian Love and Jarran Reed expected to return this week, the Seahawks will have their entire starting defense healthy and available for the first time this season.
— Dugar, Michael-Shawn (@MikeDugar) December 5, 2025

A fully healthy defense for Seattle could be huge

Seattle is right in the thick of a stacked NFC West race and having a fully healthy defense for its remaining schedule could be a huge boost. The Seahawks' remaining schedule features games against the Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers, Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers.

That is four of the five remaining games for Seattle against teams that are in serious playoff contention. The additions of Love and Reed to the already-stout defense may be what the Seahawks need to capture their first division championship since the 2020-21 season.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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