The Seattle Seahawks will be a team to watch in the NFL for 2023. They defied expectations in 2022, but they will now have to meet expectations in 2023. Last year, they definitely showed promise, but there is always room for improvement. As we look ahead to the 2023 NFL season, some bold predictions could take the Seahawks to the next level. Here are four predictions that could make the Seahawks a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.

Seattle Seahawks' Performance in 2022

The Seahawks finished the 2022 NFL season with a 9-8 record, which was enough to make the playoffs. That was surely not what people expected, but it was one of the pleasant surprises of 2022. Perhaps even more shocking was the solid season from Geno Smith. He threw for over 4,200 yards and 30 touchdowns. Not surprisingly, he was named Comeback Player of the Year. However, the team struggled with consistency, particularly after Week 9. If the Seahawks can address these issues, they have the potential to be a playoff team again in the upcoming 2023 NFL Regular Season, let's dive into some of our daring predictions for the Seattle Seahawks and their quarterback, Geno Smith.

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Ahead of the 2023 NFL Regular Season, it’s time to make some of our bold predictions for Geno Smith and the Seattle Seahawks.

4. Tariq Woolen Shines in Coverage

2022 fifth-round draft pick Tariq Woolen surprised many with his performance as a rookie. He started his journey as a wide receiver in college but shifted to cornerback midway through his time at UTSA. His athleticism and skills stood out, making him a strong contender for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award.

Woolen showcased his prowess by holding opposing quarterbacks to a passer rating of 72.1 and making impressive plays with 16 pass breakups and six interceptions. With more time to grow and develop as a cornerback, he could easily become one of the NFL's finest in coverage.

3. Jaxon Smith-Njigba Makes an Impact

Jaxon Smith-Njigba brings a unique skill set to the Seahawks. He has a knack for effectively navigating the middle of the field and moving the chains. In the previous season, DK Metcalf led the team with 141 targets, setting a high standard. However, Smith-Njigba's route-running skills and agility should set him apart in an area where other Seahawks receivers haven't thrived.

Smith-Njigba's previous performances demonstrate his potential. During preseason, he had six catches for 83 yards. That's an impressive average of 13.8 yards per reception. His presence could provide a significant boost to the Seahawks' offensive strategy.

2. Geno Smith's Continued Success

Geno Smith proved his doubters wrong last season. He set franchise records for passing yards, completions, and completion percentage for the Seahawks. What's even more remarkable is that he tallied over 30 touchdowns. That's quite a feat, considering only a few quarterbacks managed to achieve this mark in the previous year.

As the 2023 season approaches, the stage is set for Geno Smith to elevate his game even further. Bolstered by an improved offensive line, Smith has the potential to scale new heights in his performance. A key factor in this potential surge is the introduction of rookie receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba to the Seahawks' lineup. Smith-Njigba's dynamic skill set and playmaking abilities promise to forge a formidable partnership with Smith.

With these elements aligning in his favor, Smith's trajectory appears primed for yet another remarkable season. The tantalizing prospect of him achieving another season with over 4,000 passing yards and 30 touchdowns is a tangible possibility. Sure, some critics might suggest that he could regress from his exceptional feats. However, we counter that Smith is not merely reverting to the norm; he's on the brink of an even more exceptional phase in his career. This is a quarterback who has demonstrated his ability to conquer challenges and exceed expectations. The unfolding season could well mark the continuation of his extraordinary journey.

1. The Seahawks Secure a Playoff Spot

The Seahawks' path to the playoffs might not be the boldest prediction, but it holds promise. Despite the 49ers' strong defense and impressive statistics, the Seahawks are primed for success. Their secondary and wide receiver groups appear poised to shine. In addition, advancements in their defense could greatly complement their already impressive offense.

It's worth noting that the Seahawks' Vegas win projection of 8.5 games is already looking favorable. This makes a playoff spot seem even more likely. This might be the year they bridge the gap and come out on top in the NFC West. Doing so would put them firmly in the postseason and in a position to advance deeper than last year.

Looking Ahead

As we eagerly anticipate the 2023 NFL Regular Season, these bold predictions highlight the potential that lies ahead for Geno Smith and the Seattle Seahawks. Tariq Woolen's emergence as a coverage standout, Jaxon Smith-Njigba's impact as a rookie, Geno Smith's continued success, and the Seahawks' playoff aspirations all contribute to the excitement surrounding the team.

The Seahawks have the potential to make another leap in the 2023 NFL season. While the predictions might seem daring, they're grounded in the observations and performances from previous seasons. Whether these predictions come true or not, one thing is certain—the upcoming season is set to deliver thrilling football action for fans and followers of the Seattle Seahawks.