Why CBS Sports has Seahawks in four of ten defining 2026 NFL games

The National Football League's (NFL) 2026 season will feature the Seattle Seahawks in four of the ten games CBS Sports deems crucial to the season. Although some may view this as a less challenging schedule compared to the Los Angeles Rams, who will only appear in two of these games, the reality is far more nuanced. CBS’s selection of the Seahawks for these games signals strong faith in their abilities as a team.

Strength of a schedule is often debated after the season, but the factors leading to a team’s success are too complex and variable to predict with certainty. The team's health, chemistry, and adaptability are all critical aspects that cannot be fully accounted for in preseason predictions. However, the systems the Seahawks have built and their film quality stand out as significant strengths in the coaching world.

When CBS includes the Seahawks in their list, it suggests that they believe the team performs exceptionally well on tape, a crucial element in football strategy.

The Seahawks' versatility is one of their most notable attributes. Players like Nick Emmanwori, Byron Murphy II, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba are capable of adapting to any role in the game, making them invaluable assets. These "swiss-army knife" players can cover any position group, providing a flexible and cohesive performance. In contrast, other talented players like DK Metcalf or Riq Woolen may excel in one specific role, but their consistency is less reliable.

The Seahawks' success can be traced back to their strategic approach under head coach Mike Macdonald. This offseason, the emphasis was placed on developing a versatile and cohesive team rather than mere statistics or individual measurables. This focus on player development and understanding the game on a deeper level has resulted in a more cohesive and adaptable unit on the field.

As the Seahawks prepare to play in nearly half of the NFL’s defining games this season, it's worth noting the unique style that defines their team. This style, developed and refined over the offseason, will likely make their games stand out among other contenders. The Seahawks' approach prioritizes on-field performance and strategic adaptability, which is why their games will look different from other teams in the league.