Why the Seahawks Can Build a Dynasty

Seattle Seahawks' 2026 Offseason: A Path to a Dynasty

The Seattle Seahawks have made a name for themselves not just as a Super Bowl champion, but as a team with the potential to become a long-term powerhouse in the NFL. This season, they won Super Bowl LX with the fifth-youngest roster in the league, averaging 25.77 years old. Their success was fueled by a blend of hungry, experienced veterans and young talent that has already begun to shape into future All-Pros.

Looking ahead, the Seahawks are in a unique position to build on their recent success. Teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs, who have been perennial contenders, are facing significant cap and roster challenges in 2026 and 2027. Meanwhile, the Seahawks have a cap advantage over key rivals like the Los Angeles Rams and Philadelphia Eagles. This financial flexibility is crucial as they navigate the upcoming free agency and contract negotiations.

One of the most important factors in the Seahawks’ favor is their quarterback's relatively modest salary. The team’s signal-caller is making the 18th-highest average salary among his peers, which allows them to allocate more resources elsewhere. This financial freedom could be vital in retaining key free agents this offseason.

Head coach Mike Macdonald, at just 38 years old, is also a significant asset. If he continues to lead the team to success, he could potentially become one of the longest-tenured coaches in the NFL. His youth and energy are matched by his strategic mind, which has already proven effective in leading the Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory.

2026 Cap Space and Free Agent Landscape

The Seahawks currently have $72.28 million in cap space for the 2026 season, ranking sixth in the league. This gives them a strong foundation to work with as they look to retain key players and add new talent.

Unrestricted Free Agents (UFAs)

Some of the most notable unrestricted free agents include:

• S Coby Bryant (projected $14.228 million average annual salary)
• WR Rashid Shaheed ($14.127 million)
• EDGE Boye Mafe ($12.24 million)
• CB Josh Jobe ($9.74 million)
• RB Kenneth Walker III ($9.01 million)
• CB Riq Woolen ($8.19 million)
• T Josh Jones ($3.5 million)
• WR Dareke Young
• LB Chazz Surratt

These players were instrumental in the Seahawks' Super Bowl run, and retaining them will be a top priority. Replacing them would be a challenge, especially given their roles in the team's success.

Restricted Free Agents (RFAs)

Among the restricted free agents, LB Drake Thomas and S Ty Okada are particularly valuable. Thomas emerged as a starter at linebacker next to Ernest Jones IV, while Okada provided elite depth in the secondary. Both players will be critical to the team's defensive strategy moving forward.

Extension Candidates and Future Planning

The Seahawks also have several players who are candidates for extensions, with a focus on those who will be unrestricted free agents in 2027. These include:

• WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (projected $37.73 million average annual salary)
• DL Leonard Williams ($17.79 million)
• CB Devon Witherspoon ($23.19 million)
• EDGE Derick Hall ($12.11 million)
• RB Zach Charbonnet ($7.25 million)

With approximately $128.34 million in cap space for 2027, the Seahawks have the financial flexibility to lock up these key players before they hit free agency. While some of this cap space will be used to sign current unrestricted free agents, there should still be enough room to keep most of the big names in Seattle.

Building a Dynasty

The Seahawks’ path to becoming a dynasty isn’t just about their own strengths—it’s also about the struggles of other teams. The 49ers, for example, are in a difficult cap situation, which could open the door for the Seahawks and the Rams to dominate the NFC West. The Rams, led by Matthew Stafford, will remain competitive for years to come, but the Seahawks have the edge in terms of long-term planning.

Other teams like the Eagles, Bears, Packers, and Lions are also young and capable, but they haven’t yet proven they can beat the Seahawks. The Eagles and Bears will face the Seahawks in the 2026 season, giving them a chance to test their mettle.

General Manager John Schneider's Role

General manager John Schneider has a reputation for being a master of the salary cap. His ability to find creative solutions will be crucial as he works to retain as many pieces as possible while adding new talent. The Seahawks need to continue finding high-value additions, much like they did with DeMarcus Lawrence.

With all the factors pointing in their favor, the Seahawks are well-positioned to return to the Super Bowl next season and beyond. Their combination of youth, financial flexibility, and strategic leadership makes them a team to watch in the coming years.

Conclusion

The Seattle Seahawks are not just a one-time winner—they’re building something special. With the right moves, they could become a consistent force in the NFL for years to come. The 2026 offseason will be a critical period for the team, and if they handle it correctly, the future looks bright.