The NFL playoffs begin this weekend. For the first time in six years, the Seahawks aren’t part of them.
KNKX sports commentator Art Thiel talked with Morning Edition Host Kirsten Kendrick about what went wrong in 2017 and what the team needs to do to come back strong next season.
Free Agency Fail
"The Seahawks have to do better in free agency," Thiel said.
"Last year, they signed running back Eddie Lacy, offensive lineman Luke Joeckel and kicker Blair Walsh. None of them worked out."
Costly Choices
"And then, in order to fill the gaps in the roster, the Seahawks traded in-season for players who cost them draft choices going into next April's draft."
"The Seahawks have a first-round pick, which is 18th overall - as high as they've had it in several years - but they don't have a second-rounder and they don't have a third-rounder."
"So, they won't pick until fourth. That is, right now."
Trade Earl Thomas?
"The only way to get those picks back is to trade somebody. And it could be (free safety) Earl Thomas," Thiel continued.
"He's the guy that could draw second- and third-round draft picks. But he's still in his prime at age 29. He's the heart of the defense."
"It would be a blow but the Seahawks are going to have to do things drastically, I think, this offseason."
"In order to stay competitive and playoff-caliber, they're going to have to do some serious remaking."
Never miss an episode again. Subscribe to Sports With Art Thiel with iTunes orGoogle Play now. You can find Art Thiel's work at Sportspress Northwest and Crosscut.com.
