Analysis: Predicting Seahawks 2026 Defensive Breakout Candidates

Analysis
Written By Corbin Smith

Now less than a month from reporting date for training camp, the Seattle Seahawks will soon begin their Super Bowl title defense with sights on hoisting another Lombardi Trophy.

But even with most of their roster kept intact after losing only five free agents from their title squad, for the Seahawks to have a shot at a rare Super Bowl repeat in coach Mike Macdonald’s third season at the helm, they will need several players to take a step forward with every opponent ready to give them their best shot each week. Defensively, Seattle has more holes to fill after the departures of Coby Bryant, Riq Woolen, and Boye Mafe during the offseason, leaving more opportunities for other players to rise to the occasion and help fill those significant voids.

Looking towards the 2026 season, which defensive Seahawks stand out as prime candidates for a breakout campaign?

Corbin Smith

After teaching and coaching high school football for five years, Smith transitioned into sports reporting in 2017 and spent seven years with Sports Illustrated as a Seahawks beat reporter before launching the Emerald City Spectrum in February 2025. He also has hosted the Locked On Seahawks podcast since 2019.

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