The 2026 Football Almanac, crafted by the esteemed Aaron Schatz, offers an insightful glimpse into the world of football analytics. As a sports enthusiast and analyst, I find myself captivated by the depth of information it provides, especially when it comes to the Seattle Seahawks. Let's dive into some key takeaways and explore the fascinating insights this almanac presents.
Offense: A Monster in the Making
One of the most intriguing aspects is the Seahawks' offensive strategy with their two-tight end sets. Averaging 9.3 adjusted net yards per pass attempt, they've unleashed a formidable passing game. This shift from the 11 personnel-heavy approach in 2024 under Ryan Grubb to the current Klint Kubiak-led system has been a game-changer. Brian Fleury's continued use of heavier formations is expected, and with good reason.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the stark contrast between the Seahawks' play action and non-play action performances. While their offense without play action was solid, it was their play action game that truly shone, with Seattle being the only team to average over 10 yards per play action pass. Sam Darnold, in particular, thrived in this system, showcasing his lethal potential. This raises a deeper question: How can teams effectively counter such a dynamic offensive strategy?
Health, as they say, is wealth, and this adage rings true for the Seahawks' offensive success. With a low number of long-term injuries to key players, the team maintained a consistent and effective performance. Only Charles Cross and Jalen Sundell missed multiple weeks due to injury among the starting players, which is a testament to the team's resilience. Cooper Kupp and Zach Charbonnet's brief absences were minimal, further emphasizing the team's depth and ability to adapt.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the Seahawks' approach to running back screens. Historically, this aspect of their game has been a weakness, but in 2025, they used it sparingly, employing only 10 running back screens, the lowest in the league. This strategic decision seems to have paid off, as it allowed the team to focus on their strengths and exploit other areas of the field.
The Seahawks' offensive prowess extended beyond the passing game. They led the NFL in broken and missed tackles on offense, with Kenneth Walker III and Jaxon Smith-Njigba being key contributors. This ability to evade defenders and create yardage after contact is a testament to their skill and athleticism. Additionally, their pass catchers were among the best in the league, with a low drop rate, ensuring that every pass attempt counted.
Sam Darnold's performance behind a solid offensive line was a welcome change for Seahawks fans. With a low knockdown rate, he was able to stay upright and deliver passes with confidence. None of the Seahawks' offensive linemen ranked in the top 20 for pressures allowed, a phenomenal achievement that highlights the team's overall offensive strategy and execution.
Defense: A Force to Be Reckoned With
The Seahawks' defense boasted an impressive trio of coverage corners, with Riq Woolen, Devon Witherspoon, and Josh Jobe ranking among the top 15 in DVOA. This depth and talent in the secondary are crucial for any successful defense. DeMarcus Lawrence, or 'Tank' as he's known, raised the bar for the edge group, leading in defeats and pressures. His impact on the defense cannot be overstated.
Leonard Williams and Byron Murphy II formed an impenetrable interior tandem, dominating opposing offenses. Their combination of pressure and run stop rate made them a formidable duo. Nick Emmanwori, a nickel safety, added to the defensive prowess, leading the secondary in defeats and ranking highly in coverage DVOA. His versatility and effectiveness are a testament to the Seahawks' defensive strategy.
Despite Josh Jobe's high penalty count, his impact on the field cannot be ignored. With most of his penalties being less severe, he still managed to contribute significantly to the defense. Ernest Jones, often overlooked, ranked highly in pass coverage DVOA, showcasing his skill and value to the team.
Special Teams: A Consistent Strength
Michael Dickson and Jason Myers have solidified their positions as top performers in their respective roles. Dickson's gross punt value over average led the NFL, while Myers was the league's leading scorer and first in net points. This consistency in special teams performance is a rare feat and a credit to the Seahawks' coaching and player execution.
In conclusion, the 2026 Football Almanac provides a comprehensive and insightful look at the Seattle Seahawks' performance. From their offensive prowess to their defensive dominance and consistent special teams play, the team has established itself as a force to be reckoned with. As an analyst, I'm excited to see how these trends develop and impact the team's future success. The almanac is a treasure trove of information, and I encourage fellow enthusiasts to explore its depths and join the conversation.
