DW '09 Season Preview: Seattle Seahawks

Last Season: 4-12

Key Additions: Head Coach Jim Mora, WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh, LB Aaron Curry
Key Losses: LB Julian Peterson, FB Leonard Weaver

Offense: The Seahawks are hoping to rebound from a disastrous 2008 season in which they ranked 28th in total offense, including 29th in passing and 25th in points scored. The team was decimated by injuries on the offensive side of the ball, with QB Matt Hasselbeck, OT Walter Jones and WR Deion Branch all missing significant time. T.J. Houshmandzadeh was brought in during the offseason to help kick start an offense lacking in fire power last season. New head coach Jim Mora will also try to establish some form of a ground game in the coming season, similar to the rushing attack he developed in Atlanta during his time there. The question is, will Julius Jones be able to carry the load while staying healthy throughout an entire season? Overall, they'll certainly be better offensively in '09, barring any injuries like the ones they experienced in '08.

Defense: If you thought the Seahawks offense was pathetic last season, you should take a look at their defense. Their '08 stats were atrocious - 30th in total defense, 32nd against the pass, and 25th in points allowed...only one way to go from here. The Seahawks addressed their issues on defense with the 4th pick in the draft, Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry. Curry will step in right away to replace the departed Julian Peterson. Peterson was 2nd on the team in tackles and sacks last year, so Curry will need to contribute immediately. I don't see the team making any giant leaps this year on defense, but really, how could it get any worse?

Fantasy Studs: WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh: 92 rec, 904 yds, 4 TD in '08. Hasselbeck will have a new favorite target, expect Housh to have a nice season. Matt Hasselbeck: Only played 7 games in '08, but if stays healthy he could be a legitimate fantasy option.

Prediction: 9-7. The NFC West is awful.