The Seattle Seahawks have had their share of ups and downs since their team started in 1976. This year they will be playing their 33rd season. They will try to improve from 10-6, which was a pretty good score, and return to the playoffs, continuing their five-season playoff streak that has lasted from 2003-2007. In terms of coaching, this will be Mike Holmgren’s last season as head coach, as he announced on January 22, 2008. Next year, Jim Mora will assume head coaching duties. How do you see the future of the Seattle Seahawks? There is some uncertainty in the air, regarding the management and the players.
First, you have to wonder why Gil Haskell, the team’s offensive coordinator who has served eight years with the Seahawks (and even longer with Mike Holmgren) was passed over by a coach who was fired from the Atlanta Falcons and passed through a job coach in Miami. Will there be any dissension in the office because of this next move? The official answer is that it’s not a problem, although of course management is expected to say that.
On the field there have also been some notable changes. First, the team has suffered some notable roster losses, including kicker Josh Brown, who went to the St. Louis Rams, wide receiver DJ Hackett, who went to the Carolina Panthers, tight end Tom Ashworth and running back Shaun Alexander, who was released. Were there any notable additions? Yes, actually, five new players, including Carolina Panthers guard Mike Wahle, Dallas Cowboys running back Julius Jones, Detroit Lions running back TJ Duckett, New Orleans Saints placekicker Olindo Mare and punter Reggie Hodges.
There was some concern about the Seahawks’ playing vacancies, especially considering that coach Holmgren will be leaving in a year. Therefore, the 2008 Draft was particularly important for the Seahawks. Who did management pick at its most important hour? The first-round pick went to defensive end Lawrence Jackson, followed by tight end John Carlson, defensive tackle Red Bryant, fullback Owen Schmitt, long snapper Tyler Schmitt, running back Justin Forsett and punter Brandon Coutu.
Apparently, early on the team would need some serious inside line talent, which explains Wahle’s draft choice. The team is also focusing on their running game, backfield and offensive line. What was the reaction of the experts and fans regarding the draft? Jackson’s first-round pick was seen as unsettling, especially since the team already had two proper defensive ends. Bryant’s pick had better receiving, as did Carlson, who is a proven pass catcher. Schmitt will be effective in filling Mack Strong’s place, while long snapper Tyler Schmitt met with more scorn, considering most long snappers are signed as free agents, not crucial draft picks.
