The expectations for the Seattle Seahawks in 2024 are varied. Some experts believe that with an improved defense, the team could return to the playoffs, while others oddly predict Seattle will struggle to win more than six games. This latter view is puzzling, as the Seahawks have posted a 9-8 record in each of the past two seasons despite defensive struggles. The offense, which remains largely intact, shouldn’t regress, and with Ryan Grubb taking over as offensive coordinator, it could even become more efficient.
The success of the season may hinge on the performance of five key players. If four of them perform well, Seattle is likely to make the playoffs and could be a serious threat. If they underperform, the low expectations of the “six-win” critics may prove accurate.
Tyler Lockett – Seahawks Wide Receiver
Tyler Lockett has always been a reliable player, transitioning from a great return specialist to an outstanding receiver. However, at 32 years old during the 2024 season, concerns are emerging about his age, especially as a smaller receiver. Despite being signed through 2025, his contract becomes significantly expensive next year.
Lockett’s 2023 season was his least productive since 2017. Although he received the second-most targets of his career, he had fewer catches and more drops than in previous seasons, with his second-fewest touchdown receptions since 2017. The question now is whether Lockett is still Seattle’s top receiver or if he has fallen behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba in the pecking order.
Though Lockett restructured his contract to lower his 2024 cap hit, it spikes to nearly $31 million in 2025, the third-highest for any receiver in the league—yet he is unlikely to be the third-most productive. With DK Metcalf and Smith-Njigba commanding targets, Lockett’s production may not justify his hefty price tag. Despite being a beloved figure and one of the Seahawks’ all-time greats, the NFL is a business, and difficult decisions may loom if his numbers don’t bounce back.
