Seahawks DL Grades: Prioritizing Michael Bennett Was Huge In Super Bowl Repeat Bid

Feb 2, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Denver Broncos running back

(27) is tackled by Seattle Seahawks defensive end

(91) during the first quarter in Super Bowl XLVIII at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Losses:

• DE Red Bryant – Signed free agency deal with Jacksonville Jaguars

Bryant has such an interesting and unique ability as a run-stuffer that his skills will be coveted, but only the right kind of team can use him. His stats never have reflected exactly how important he’s been, but he definitely made the Hawks more physically imposing when he was on the field. Loss Importance Grade: B-

• DE Chris Clemons – Signed free agency deal with Jacksonville Jaguars

I love me some Chris Clemons. Plainly and simply, of all the Hawks that are now elsewhere, I will miss Clem the most. My sadness could be in conjunction with the fact that he far-and-above exceeded our expectations when coming over from Philly (who obviously didn’t know who they had in Clem), or perhaps it was the infectious smile under the intimidating dark visor after a sack that made me partial. Unfortunately, there simply wasn’t enough cash to keep him. Things may have gone much differently for him had he not ripped his knee in Washington two postseasons ago, but he was impressive in rehab, had a good season in 2013 and will get plenty of love in Jacksonville. Even with the restructured knee, Clem offers a very unique skill set as a pass-rushing specialist in this league. Loss Importance Grade: B+

• DT Clinton McDonald – Signed free agency deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers

McDonald’s impact was mostly in the Seahawks’ ability to sub freely along the defensive line and not drop off from play to play. He wasn’t dynamic or overpowering, but he was another solid contributor in terms of doing his job on a daily basis. The Seahawks shouldn’t miss his presence too much, but it’s not like you just replace him. Still, Seattle felt they could do an amicable job with the youngsters that are returning. Loss Importance Grade: C+