The Seattle Seahawks have made a splash by signing veteran edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr., but don't pencil him into a starting role just yet. While Fowler's arrival fills a critical need, Seattle's defensive scheme has a history of flexibility—meaning nothing is guaranteed on game day.
Fowler posted a solid 77.6 grade from Pro Football Focus in 2025, ranking 21st out of 115 eligible edge defenders. Over the past six seasons, he's averaged about five sacks per year. The No. 3 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft is now entering his 12th season, signing a one-year deal worth up to $5 million with the Seahawks. That's a low-risk, high-reward move for a team that knows how to maximize veteran talent.
But here's the thing: Seattle didn't just lose Boye Mafe—they lost Kenneth Walker III, Riq Woolen, and Coby Bryant too. Critics point to these departures as reasons the reigning champions can't make a serious title run. And sure, those are legitimate questions. But it feels like the Seahawks are being dismissed too quickly, especially after a dominant 2025 season.
Consider this: Seattle's point differential last season rivaled some of the greatest Super Bowl teams of all time. They posted the highest defensive DVOA in franchise history. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams are the betting favorites for 2026. Respect to L.A., but the Seahawks have earned the right to be in the conversation until proven otherwise.
So where does Fowler fit in? Rookies Jadarian Price, Julian Neal, and Bud Clark will get their shots at filling vacated roles. Veterans will push them every step of the way. John Schneider didn't draft a young pass rusher to replace Mafe—and Mafe was elite in one specific area: he ranked 8th in the NFL in ESPN's Pass-Rush Win Rate (18% PRWR). But he was primarily a designated pass rusher on passing downs. Fowler brings similar burst, but Seattle's scheme demands versatility.
Bottom line: Fowler is a great get, but he'll have to earn his snaps. In Seattle, nothing is handed out—it's earned. And that's exactly how champions are built.