The Seattle Seahawks are facing a crucial offseason as they look to address significant issues, particularly on offense, after a disappointing 2024 season. Despite having a wealth of talent at skill positions, including wide receivers like DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba (JSN), the offense has consistently underperformed. Much of the blame for this lackluster performance has been placed on offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who, after a promising start, has struggled to make the most of the team’s offensive potential.
One of the primary critiques of Grubb’s offense is its predictability, which has made it easier for opposing defenses, particularly well-coached ones, to anticipate plays. Former Pittsburgh Steelers safety and ESPN analyst Ryan Clark commented on NFL Live, noting that the Seahawks’ offense isn’t necessarily predictable in terms of the plays called, but rather in the way each player operates. He pointed out that defenders can easily read what to expect from key players like Metcalf, Lockett, and JSN, allowing defenses to hone in on their movements and limit their effectiveness. This predictability has been a recurring issue for the Seahawks throughout the season.
Additionally, the Seahawks’ offensive struggles have been compounded by their pass-heavy approach, which has allowed defenders to sit back and anticipate Geno Smith’s passing decisions. This has led to Smith throwing 15 interceptions, which is tied for the second-most in the NFL. The Seahawks have also failed to implement misdirection and other deceptive tactics into their offense. Play action passes, which Smith has shown proficiency in, have been notably underused. Furthermore, the playbook has lacked “tendency breakers”—plays designed to throw off opposing defenses’ ability to predict the Seahawks’ next move. Without these key elements, the offense has become too one-dimensional and easy to defend against.
Although Grubb’s first season as the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator has had its shortcomings, it’s possible that with more experience, he could improve. However, the Seahawks could choose to make a change this offseason, possibly bringing in a new offensive coordinator who can better utilize the team’s talent and make the offense less predictable. With the Seahawks’ playoff hopes still uncertain as they head into their final game against the Los Angeles Rams, the outcome of this season could significantly influence the decisions made during the offseason to address these offensive woes. Ultimately, the Seahawks must find a way to evolve their offense to be more dynamic and unpredictable in order to compete at the highest level in the future.
