Seahawks' Offense Struggles After Key Personnel Decisions

Seattle's offense has faltered early in the season, a situation the team attributes to a series of roster moves made seven months ago. General manager John Schneider re-signed receiver Rashid Shaheed to a three-year, $51 million contract while allowing running back Kenneth Walker III to depart in free agency for a three-year, $43 million deal with the Chiefs. The decision left the Seahawks without a proven rushing threat after Walker's injury-free production the previous year.

To fill the backfield, Seattle drafted Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price with the No. 32 pick, but he is currently on injured reserve with a chest injury after a modest debut. The lack of a strong running game has forced quarterback Sam Darnold to shoulder a larger share of the offensive load. Through six games, Darnold has completed 60.4 % of his passes for 1,033 yards, averaging 6.9 yards per attempt, with seven touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba remains the primary target, posting 49 receptions for 717 yards and seven touchdowns, the league-high in receiving yards so far. However, no other receiver has provided significant production, and Shaheed has recorded only 14 catches for 162 yards without a touchdown.

Pass protection has also deteriorated; the Seahawks have allowed 16 sacks in six weeks, up from 27 over an entire regular season last year. The combination of a diminished rushing attack, limited receiving options, and increased pressure on Darnold has contributed to the team's 3–3 record and a deficit behind the NFC West-leading 49ers.

Looking ahead, Seattle faces the unbeaten Chiefs on Sunday Night Football before hosting the Bears. Analysts suggest that a trade or roster adjustment before the November 10 deadline may be necessary to revive the offense and improve the team's playoff prospects.