Remember last season? Yeah, the one where our Seattle Seahawks sent the San Francisco 49ers packing from the divisional round of the playoffs? Well, it looks like those guys are still reeling, because heading into training camp on July 10, they've got some major questions, especially after ranking dead last in the league in sacks last year. Seriously, 32nd in the NFL. Ouch.
The Quest to Get Younger, The Quest to Beat Seattle
The Niners were trying to get younger, big time. Back in 2024, they had one of the oldest rosters in the league. So, last offseason, they let a bunch of veteran free agents walk and put their faith in the draft. A ton of rookies hit the field for them, and credit where credit is due, they still made the playoffs as one of the NFL's best stories despite a season full of injuries. They nearly took the NFC West, but then, you know, the Seahawks showed up and sent them home. This offseason, with some cash to spend and obvious holes, they tried to patch things up. They grabbed some new wide receivers and linebackers in free agency, and even traded for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to bring in some experience. But even with those moves, they're still betting big on young talent, and they've got some serious head-scratchers as training camp approaches.
Offensive Line Still a Mess?
Their offensive line, for starters, is still a question mark. They brought in Brett Toth, Vederian Lowe, and Robert Jones this offseason, plus drafted Carver Willis and Enrique Cruz Jr. But they're still scrambling for depth. It looks like left guard is an open competition right now between Toth, Jones, and Connor Colby, their seventh-round pick from 2025. This is supposed to be a "test" to see if one of these guys can step up next to Trent Williams. If that doesn't work out, there are still some veteran free agents out there who could take a one-year deal. Not exactly a ringing endorsement of their current guys, is it? Even at tackle, Vederian Lowe is their top backup, but they're still holding onto Brandon Parker and Austen Pleasants from last season. Maybe there are better options out there, huh? The interior line still features Nick Zakelj and Drake Nugent alongside Toth and Jones. You know there's going to be some shuffling before they even get to the 53-man roster.
The Pass Rush Problem That Just Won't Quit
But here's the kicker: their pass rush. Alongside Nick Bosa, they're leaning heavily on young players for 2026. On the edge, you've got Mykel Williams, Romello Height, and Sam Okuayinonu. All young, all developing, but none are proven pass rushers like they had with Bryce Huff last season. Seriously, adding a veteran here would be a no-brainer. Inside, it's the same story. Outside of Osa Odighizuwa, there's no proven pass rusher. Alfred Collins, C.J. West, Keion White, Evan Anderson, and Gracen Halton are all young guys, but can they actually get to the quarterback? Last year they ranked 32nd in the entire NFL in sacks. Thirty-second! They were literally the worst in the league. That's a massive hole, especially when they're trying to compete. It's almost like they still remember getting beat by our guys. We'll be watching to see if any of these young guys can step up, or if they're going to keep being the league's punching bag for quarterbacks.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.