On paper, the Los Angeles Rams are the best team in the NFL going into the 2026 season, especially with Aaron Donald back. On paper, any team can look scary, and that includes the Seattle Seahawks. On paper, these two teams are virtually unmatched. What about on the field?
The consensus is out on the Rams after revamping their defense over the summer, so we won't know how good they are on the field compared to what they show on paper until they play. As for the Seahawks, who didn't do a ton of revamping, mostly bringing back their full Super Bowl-winning roster, well, we already know what that group looks like; no paper necessary.
The Seahawks roster, much like the Rams', is loaded on offense and defense, not to mention two excellent coaching staffs with two elite-minded head coaches roaming the sidelines. For Seattle, with most of last year's roster returning, it's time for a new edition of offensive and defensive rankings. So, who are Seattle's five best players on each side of the ball?
Five best players on the Seattle Seahawks offense
1. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR
There should be no surprise if last season's league leader in receiving yards doesn't mirror similar success again this season. Jaxon Smith-Njigba has already proven he's one of the best wideouts in the NFL, and he can reach elite status with another incredible year.
2. Charles Cross, DT
Charles Cross doesn't produce flashy numbers like a wide receiver or score touchdowns, but his value to the Seahawks' success is unmistakable; he's also their second-best offensive player because of that. He provides elite blindside protection at left tackle and serves as the anchor of the offensive line.
3. Sam Darnold, QB
Sam Darnold isn't elite, and he may never be, but the Seahawks don't need him to be. All they need is for him to be very good to great, consistent, and careful with the football. Aside from that, Darnold has proved so many wrong, and he can continue to do that with another solid year. If he's on his game, the Seahawks offense will be unstoppable.
4. Rashid Shaheed, WR
If the Seahawks do indeed plan to use Rashid Shaheed significantly more in the offense this season, the rest of the NFL needs to be on high alert. Shaheed's abilities, versatility, and incredible speed can blow the tops of defenses. The Seahawks would be foolish not to take advantage of this, wouldn't they?
5. Jadarian Price
The Seahawks' new rookie running back, Jadarian Price, has a lot of responsibility to carry into his first NFL season. Picking up for Kenneth Walker III, Price will have to find a way to become one of Seattle's top offensive threats, and quickly. If he does, Price's impact on the Seahawks could mean another Super Bowl run.
Five best players on the Seattle Seahawks defense
1. Leonard Williams, DE
Leonard Williams's spot as the Seahawks' No. 1 defensive player is undeniable. He's the best at his position across the league, and he's the most elite player the Seahawks have, maybe on both sides of the ball. He's also the heartbeat of Seattle's defense.
2. Devon Witherspoon, CB
One of Seattle's newest paid players, Devon Witherspoon, is one of the NFL's most versatile cornerbacks and an absolute stud in Seattle's secondary. He's also the leader of that position group with Riq Woolen gone. He plays with great speed, makes big hits, and locks down almost every top wideout he faces.
3. Nick Emmanwori, S
Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald loves the hybrid-style player Nick Emmanwori brings to the team and uses him as such. Emmanwori is lethal in the secondary, and he's hard for opposing offenses to track, which gives him elite status in the NFL. As long as he's roaming the Seahawks' defensive backfield, they're dangerous.
4. Ernest Jones IV, LB
What Ernest Jones IV brings to the Seahawks is more than just grit, toughness, experience, and excellence at linebacker. He's also one of their loudest vocal leaders and an example of leadership off the field. Jones's presence in general keeps the Seahawks defense humming, but when he's on the field, he's ferocious, brings energy, and plays with a high IQ.
5. Byron Murphy II, DT
Going from 0.5 to seven sacks in his rookie to sophomore NFL season shows why Byron Murphy II is quickly becoming one of Seattle's top defensive stars. He's on track to be an All-Pro sooner rather than later, and he's an absolute anchor of the defensive line. The combo threat of him and Williams is thunderous and a major reason Seattle's defense is called "The Dark Side."
Add us as a preferred source on Google