Full Breakdown
Seahawks Look to Emerging Talents for 2026 Season
4/7/2026, 2:12:19 PM
New Faces and Returning Players
As the Seattle Seahawks prepare for the 2026 NFL season, the team is focusing on integrating new talents and previously sidelined players into their roster. Following the departure of several key players from their 2025 Super Bowl championship team, head coach Mike Macdonald and general manager John Schneider are optimistic about the potential of seven under-the-radar players who could significantly impact the upcoming season.
Key Players to Watch
Rylie Mills
Defensive lineman Rylie Mills, a fifth-round pick from Notre Dame, missed most of the previous season due to an ACL injury. However, he made a notable return during the Super Bowl, recording a sack against quarterback Drake Maye. Mills is expected to play a larger role in 2026, with Macdonald indicating that the team is exploring how best to utilize his skills, potentially even as an edge rusher.
Rodney Thomas II and A.J. Finley
Safety Rodney Thomas II, a recent free agent signing from the Indianapolis Colts, is competing for a starting safety position following the departure of Coby Bryant. Macdonald expressed enthusiasm about Thomas's fit within the team's defensive scheme. Similarly, A.J. Finley, who was claimed off waivers from the Los Angeles Chargers, is also in the running for a starting role after recovering from a knee injury sustained during training camp last season.
Noah Igbinoghene
Cornerback Noah Igbinoghene, a former first-round pick by the Miami Dolphins, joins the Seahawks after spending time with the Washington Commanders. His versatility is seen as a valuable asset as the team seeks to fill the gap left by Riq Woolen's departure. Macdonald noted the opportunity for Igbinoghene to establish himself within the secondary.
Jamie Sheriff and D’Anthony Bell
Linebacker Jamie Sheriff, who impressed during the 2024 preseason, is looking to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. Schneider highlighted Sheriff’s potential as a hybrid player capable of contributing both as an edge rusher and inside linebacker. Meanwhile, safety D’Anthony Bell, who has experience on special teams and as a backup safety, will also compete for a starting role, providing flexibility in the defensive backfield.
Nehemiah Pritchett
Cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett, a fifth-round pick in 2024, is expected to take on a more significant role in the cornerback rotation following Woolen's exit. Macdonald expressed confidence in Pritchett's ability to elevate his game and seize the opportunities presented to him.
Official Statements & Responses
Schneider remarked on the promising group of players, stating, “there’s a cool group of guys” who have the potential to make a name for themselves in the upcoming season. Macdonald emphasized the importance of finding the right roles for each player, noting, “Mike’s got a really cool vision for him,” referring to Sheriff’s versatility.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Seahawks are optimistic about their new additions, some analysts question the team's reliance on unproven players to fill critical roles. The effectiveness of integrating these players into the existing team dynamic remains to be seen, particularly given the high expectations following their Super Bowl victory.
What's Next
As the Seahawks head into training camp, the competition for starting positions will intensify, with these emerging players vying for significant roles in the 2026 season. The team's ability to adapt and develop these talents will be crucial as they aim to build on their recent success.
