The Seattle Seahawks addressed most of their roster needs in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, even the best things can be better, and Mike Macdonald's "Dark Side" defense definitely isn't the exception to that rule.
The Seahawks could've used another pass rusher. DeMarcus Lawrence may not retire after all, but they lost Boye Mafe, didn't add anyone in the NFL Draft, and Aden Durde loves to rotate and shake things up in almost every snap.
Considering that, and now that the compensatory pick formula isn't going to be an issue, the Seahawks might dip their toes in the free-agency pool. If that's the case, it's hard to think of a more obvious fit than Kyle Van Noy.
The Seattle Seahawks should reunite Kyle Van Noy with Mike Macdonald
According to Spotrac, Kyle Van Noy is projected to sign a one-year, $3.5 million contract to return for his 13th season. The Seahawks have $32.79 million in cap space, per Over The Cap, and that should be more than enough to sign the rookie class, add Van Noy, and still have some flexibility for in-season trades.
The 34-year-old already knows what it takes to succeed in Macdonald's modular system and deception-heavy defensive approach. Also, he's coming off a strong season, making 15 appearances (13 starts) and registering 20 tackles, nine QB hits, four passes defensed, four tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, and one pick.
With Jesse Minter looking to revamp the defense in Baltimore, there might not be much of an opportunity for him.
Macdonald's time with Van Noy was short-lived, but it was certainly encouraging. He helped him reach a then-career high nine sacks, 30 tackles, nine QB hits, nine tackles for loss, four passes defensed, and two forced fumbles in 14 appearances (two starts).
Of course, a lot has transpired since, but Van Noy has shown no signs of slowing down. Also, his ability to line up in multiple spots in the defensive line would give this team a wild card and a plug-and-play type of veteran at a reasonable price.
The Seahawks' heavy-hitting, stacked defense can afford to have an older guy rotate in and out as a situational player, and that should help him stay fresh late in games and throughout the season. He may not solve any major needs, but the Seahawks were the best team in the league last season for a reason, so it's not like they had much tweaking to do.
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