Projecting Seahawks Roster After Preseason Opener vs. Chargers | Analysis
The Seattle Seahawks opened their preseason with a 24-13 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, giving fans a glimpse of what the team might look like in the upcoming season. While preseason games are often about evaluating individual performances and experimenting with schemes, they also provide valuable insight into the roster’s composition. Here’s a look at how the Seahawks’ roster might shape up after the first exhibition contest.
Quarterback
Geno Smith started the game and looked sharp, completing 10 of 15 passes for 101 yards and a touchdown. Drew Lock played the second half and was less impressive, but he showed some flashes of potential. With Smith seemingly entrenched as the starter, Lock will likely be battling for the backup role against Holton Ahlers and Jake Luton.
Running Back
Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet, Seattle’s two primary running backs, didn’t play in the game. However, DeeJay Dallas, who is expected to be the third-down back, had a strong showing, rushing for 48 yards and a touchdown on seven carries. The Seahawks are likely to keep four running backs, making Dallas, Walker, Charbonnet, and potentially a fourth back like Tony Jones Jr. a strong candidate for the final spot.
Wide Receiver
The Seahawks have a solid group of receivers, led by DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. The competition for the third wide receiver spot is fierce, and it seems that the top contenders are Marquise Goodwin, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Dareke Young. Goodwin impressed in the game, catching five passes for 63 yards. Smith-Njigba played well in limited snaps, showcasing his route-running ability. Young, a fifth-round draft pick, will need to continue making plays to secure a spot on the 53-man roster.
Offensive Line
The offensive line is a significant question mark for the Seahawks. While the starting unit looks solid on paper, depth and consistency remain concerns. The preseason opener provided some answers, as several young players showed promising signs. The team will need to continue evaluating these players throughout the preseason to determine the final roster spots.
Defense
The Seahawks’ defense looked strong in the preseason opener. The defensive line, led by rookies Derick Hall and Mike Morris, created pressure on the quarterback. The secondary also performed well, with Tariq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon showing flashes of their potential. The competition for the final defensive roster spots will be fierce, as several players are vying for a chance to make the team.
Special Teams
The special teams unit was a bright spot in the preseason opener. Jason Myers, the team’s kicker, was perfect on his extra point attempts. The punting competition is ongoing, with Michael Dickson and Ryan Stonehouse both getting opportunities to showcase their skills. The Seahawks will be looking for consistency and reliability from their special teams unit.
Conclusion
The Seahawks’ preseason opener against the Chargers provided a glimpse of what to expect in the upcoming season. While the team has several promising young players, there are still questions about the roster’s depth and consistency. The preseason will provide valuable opportunities for the Seahawks to evaluate their players and make adjustments before the regular season begins. This is a team with potential, but they will need to continue to develop their talent and chemistry to compete for a playoff spot.
