Full Breakdown
Seahawks' Offensive Line Transformation Ahead of 2025 Season
8/29/2025, 2:19:37 PM
Starting Offensive Line Announced
The Seattle Seahawks are set to debut a revamped offensive line for the 2025 NFL season, featuring two new starters from North Dakota State University. Head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that the starting lineup for the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers will consist of left tackle Charles Cross, left guard Grey Zabel, center Jalen Sundell, right guard Anthony Bradford, and right tackle Abe Lucas. Sundell secured the center position over Olu Oluwatimi, who missed significant training camp time due to a back injury. This marks the seventh different starting center for the Seahawks in as many seasons.
Background and Context
The Seahawks' offensive line has been a focal point of improvement, particularly after yielding 54 sacks in the previous season. General manager John Schneider emphasized the need for better performance on both the offensive and defensive lines to compete effectively in the NFC West. The Seahawks have transitioned to an outside-zone blocking scheme under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, aiming to enhance their rushing attack, which ranked among the lowest in the league last season.
Key Figures in the Offensive Line
- Charles Cross: Left tackle and a key player since being drafted in 2022.
- Grey Zabel: The 18th overall pick in the 2025 draft, Zabel is expected to bring physicality and skill to the left guard position.
- Jalen Sundell: An undrafted rookie last season, Sundell's rise to starting center showcases his impressive performance during training camp.
- Anthony Bradford: Entering his third season, Bradford aims to solidify the right guard position.
- Abe Lucas: Right tackle and another 2022 draft pick, Lucas has been a consistent presence on the line.
Official Statements & Responses
Mike Macdonald noted the competitive nature of the offensive line during training camp, stating, “They’ve done a great job... Jalen played against Kansas City really put him in a premium position to ultimately start the season at center.” Schneider echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of cohesiveness within the unit: “It has to be the offensive line... more the unit and the cohesiveness of the group than guys individually.”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding the new offensive line, concerns remain about the inexperience of Sundell and the overall depth of the unit. Critics point out that while the Seahawks have made significant changes, the effectiveness of the line will ultimately depend on the players' ability to adapt to the new system and perform under pressure.
What's Next
The Seahawks will face the San Francisco 49ers in their season opener on September 7, 2025. This matchup will serve as a critical test for the newly assembled offensive line, particularly against a formidable defensive front that has historically dominated Seattle in recent seasons. The performance of the offensive line will be pivotal in determining the Seahawks' success this season and their ability to compete in the NFC West.
