Key Takeaways:
– NFL commentator Douglas Lawson recommends that the Seattle Seahawks make a move to acquire Pro-Bowler Haason Reddick from the New York Jets.
– The acquisition of a leading pass-rushing threat like Reddick could provide the significant upgrade the Seahawks need to assert themselves as high-level playoff material.
– Any possible trade for Reddick will rely on the New York Jets not living up to expectations in the upcoming season.
After evaluating the Seattle Seahawks’ potential for playoff success, CBS Sports analyst Douglas Lawson has implied that the key to the team emerging as contenders may lie in bolstering their pass rush. A possible approach suggested by Lawson is to secure the performance of a prolific pass-rushing talent like Haason Reddick, currently with the New York Jets.
Is an Upgraded Pass Rush the Key to Playoff Success for the Seahawks?
Lawson has described the Seahawks, along with six other teams, as being in a kind of “QB purgatory.” While these teams are led by quarterbacks capable of winning individual playoff matches, they lack the crucial dynamic to carry their squads to championship victory. To overcome this, Lawson suggests the Seahawks emulate the 2021 Super Bowl–winning Los Angeles Rams, whose success was credited to a robust defense, and also aims to recreate their own “Legion of Boom” era of top defensive ranking.
According to Lawson, “Edge rushers are king,” and in case teams like the Chargers (with Khalil Mack), the Patriots (with Matt Judon), or the Jets (with Haason Reddick) fall short of competition, it could be wise for the Seahawks to scout these players.
Why Haason Reddick Could Be the Right Fit for Seahawks
Given the Seahawks’ entry into the season with Geno Smith as quarterback, despite his moderate success over the past two seasons, an upgrade in the pass rush is a plausible option. Despite tying 11th for forced sacks in the 2023 season, the Seahawks lack a top-rated pass-rushing star. Their highest contributor, Boye Mafe, carrying nine sacks last season, exemplified their need for a strong attacker. A player of Reddick’s caliber could be just the boost this team requires to escalate their course onto the next level.
Will Reddick Become Obtainable for the Seahawks?
Reddick, a former All-Pro selection and two-time Pro Bowler, was traded by the Philadelphia Eagles to the Jets for a third-round draft pick during this offseason. He is on the last stretch of the three-year contract worth $45 million signed in 2022 and has sustained consistent performance over the past four seasons, each carrying at least 11 sacks. This record puts him in fourth place for the highest number of sacks since the 2020 season.
Yet, his successful stint with the Jets will depend upon the performance of their main man, Aaron Rodgers, who missed much of the 2023 season due to injury. If the Jets don’t live up to the high expectations set for them, Reddick could emerge as a top pick at the trade deadline. It would be a lucrative opportunity for the Seahawks to pursue this attacker, especially given his expiring contract.
As the upcoming NFL season unfolds, a lot is left to speculation. However, one thing is certain: bolstering their pass rush would provide the Seattle Seahawks with serious contention for playoff success. This could come in the form of a premier pass rusher such as Haason Reddick, providing his team’s performance allows him to emerge on the trading front.