Seahawks 2021 NFL Draft primer: Can they protect Russell Wilson?

Team needs for Seahawks

On the other side of the ball, it’s clear the Seahawks aren’t happy with their team’s pass rushing ability. Seattle retained free agent defensive ends Benson Mayowa and Carlos Dunlap, and was aggressive in bringing in talent at the position. Newcomers Aldon Smith and Kerry Hyder bring not only verifiable production at the position, they also help to give the team some much-needed depth. However, Smith is once again in a legal situation and it remains to be seen how that plays out.

Defensive end/edge rushers aren’t the only ones who put pressure on the quarterback, though. Seattle did well to retain defensive tackle Poona Ford. They also sought out former Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle Al Woods in free agency for his third stint with the team. However, they may not be done and could look to the draft to find some solid talent on the second day.

The biggest hit the Seahawks took in the free agency period was at the cornerback position. Though they signed Akhello Witherspoon from their division rivals in San Francisco, Seattle lost both Shaquill Griffin and Quinton Dunbar in free agency to the Jaguars and Lions respectively. That leaves a big hole in the secondary that’s going to be filled one way or another this week.