On the eve of training camp, Seahawks Draft Blog founder Rob Staton joined The HawksZone Rundown to preview what promises to be one of the most intriguing Seahawks seasons in recent memory. With some new coaches, evolving roster, and a fanbase eager to see a new era take flight, Rob brought his signature insight to break down where the team stands—and where it’s headed.

A New Look, A New Era

This season marks the true beginning of the Mike Macdonald era in Seattle. Staton believes the energy is different—not just because of the coaching changes, but because the Seahawks finally feel like a team with a clear vision.

“I’m really looking forward to this season,” Staton said. “This is going to be a very different season… There are some new people on this team that are quite high profile. I think this is probably going to be one of the more interesting seasons we’ve had in a while.”

He praised the early signs from the new coaching staff and sees the schematic direction already taking hold.

Confidence in the Offensive Line?

One of the biggest question marks heading into camp is the offensive line. After years of inconsistency, injuries, and stopgap solutions, Staton sees some reasons for optimism—but remains cautious about them being a top-flight group.

“I would not be surprised if by the end of the season you are looking at Cross, Zabel, one of [Olu Oluwatimi or Jalen Sundell], one of these young right guards, and Abe Lucas—touch wood he stays healthy—actually showing signs of being a competent offensive line. And that’s really all you can ask for: competency. I’m not expecting elite, I’m not expecting Dallas Cowboys 2014, I just want competency and I think you’re going to get that with this group.”

He singled out second-year player Christian Haynes as a player to watch in camp—a potential breakout candidate who could finally bring some interior stability. But the key, according to Rob, is Abe Lucas.

NFC West Outlook: What’s Realistic?

Pundits have placed Seattle 3rd or even 4th in the NFC West going into the season. Rob disagrees and takes it a step further.

“I like everything they’ve done. I think they’re going to win the NFC West. Obviously, you never know what’s going to happen. If you have six serious injuries in the first three games, you ain’t winning the NFC West. But provided anything crazy like that doesn’t happen, I think they have an excellent chance of winning this division, of being in the mix in the NFC. I don’t think they’re going to win the NFC or anything like that. But I won’t be surprised if they have a better year than some people think.”

Identity under Mike Macdonald

So what’s the new identity of the Seahawks?

“Run game and Defense…it is not going to be a secret”

Staton says that for the first time in a while, Seahawks fans can look forward to watching a team with a clear defensive identity—one that isn’t purely reactive, but aggressive and strategic.

Final Thoughts

As training camp opens, Rob Staton sees the 2025 Seahawks as a work in progress with real potential. The offensive line must hold, Sam Darnold must adapt to the new offense, and the defense must deliver on Mike Macdonald’s reputation. But the building blocks are in place.

“The other thing I’d love to see for them next year is just win the games you’re supposed to win. Don’t allow a team as bad as the Giants to come into your backyard and outplay you and win that game deservedly. Don’t allow that kind of thing to happen. Don’t allow the Rams to come to Seattle and escape with a victory in a game you should have won. Win those games you’re supposed to win. We’ll forgive the Seahawks losing road games against top teams. You’ve just got to win the games you’re expected to win next year. And I think they’ll be expected to win a fair share of them. I genuinely believe they’ll win the NFC West and I think they’re going to get to the playoffs. I’m looking forward to it!”

Be sure to follow Rob at SeahawksDraftBlog.com and check out our full interview on The HawksZone Rundown podcast in the video below.

Follow HawksZone Rundown hosts on Twitter (X)!

Bryce Coutts: @brycecoutts_HZR

Ryan MacMillan: @RMac1090