The Seattle Seahawks are gearing up for another successful season, and it seems their special teams unit will be a key factor once again. With the 2026 NFL season on the horizon, the team is set to bring back a familiar face, Chazz Surratt, who has been a valuable asset to the franchise's recent success.
Surratt's return is a strategic move, given his impressive track record in special teams. Over the past three seasons, he has logged over 700 special teams snaps, showcasing his reliability and expertise in this area. This is particularly notable, as the Seahawks have historically struggled with special teams, leading to fan calls for changes in the past.
In 2024, the team's special teams units were under scrutiny, with fans calling for the firing of special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh. The focus was on the waiver watch, wondering if general manager John Schneider would part ways with Dee Williams. However, the Seahawks' strategy of adding veterans with special teams experience paid off, and they finished the season with a strong showing.
The team's success with special teams is a testament to the leadership of Mike Macdonald, who has revitalized the unit in his second year. The addition of veterans like D'Anthony Bell, Chazz Surratt, and Eric Saubert, who signed one-year contracts at or near the league minimum, has been instrumental in this turnaround. Saubert's contract extension during the regular season further solidifies his importance to the team.
Surratt's return is a strategic move that will undoubtedly boost the team's morale and performance. His presence will provide stability and continuity to the special teams unit, which is crucial for the Seahawks' overall success. With his experience and reliability, Surratt will be a key player in the team's quest for another Lombardi Trophy.
In my opinion, the Seahawks' focus on special teams is a smart move, as it has been a consistent weakness for the franchise. By bringing back Surratt and other key players, the team is sending a clear message that they are committed to improving in this area. This strategy will likely pay dividends in the upcoming season, as the special teams unit becomes a source of strength rather than a potential weakness.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast between the 2024 and 2026 seasons. The Seahawks' ability to turn things around so quickly is a testament to their resilience and adaptability. It will be interesting to see how the team builds on this success and continues to improve in the coming years.
