Seattle, Washington – The 2025 NFL Annual Meeting was held this week in Palm Beach, Florida, gathering team owners, coaches, and general managers. The Seattle Seahawks made headlines with some exciting updates regarding their team as they prepare for the upcoming season.
One notable takeaway was the Seahawks’ success in free agency. They signed Pro Bowl players such as Sam Darnold, Cooper Kupp, and DeMarcus Lawrence. General manager and president of football operations John Schneider expressed optimism, stating that with five picks in the first three rounds of the draft, they hope to add more impactful players. He emphasized how much progress the coaching staff has made this year compared to last year. “We’re so much further ahead knowing what each one of those guys really wants,” Schneider said.
Head coach Mike Macdonald echoed Schneider’s sentiments but remained humble. “I never feel ahead,” he said. However, he recognizes that the team has foundational knowledge from last year’s experiences, allowing them to operate with more confidence. The Seahawks are focused on their development, particularly for young players like Christian Haynes and Charles Cross, who will benefit from a consistent system heading into their second year.
While the Seahawks did make some additions to the roster, upgrading the offensive line has been modest so far, with tackle Josh Jones being the only notable signing. Schneider indicated that they are still looking to bolster the offensive line through both the draft and possibly more free-agent signings. Macdonald is confident that the scheme implemented by new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak will help maximize the talent of the existing players.
In addition to team updates, the Annual Meeting concluded with some significant rule changes. A new rule will move touchbacks from the 30-yard line to the 35-yard line, aimed at increasing kickoff returns. Also, a change in overtime rules now guarantees both teams a possession, which is a shift from the previous format where the first team to score could win without the other team touching the ball.
The exciting potential of the Seahawks’ reshaped roster combined with the changes in the league bodes well as they prepare for the upcoming season. The team hopes to build on last year’s efforts and enhance their competitiveness through strategic planning in the draft and free agency.
