Seattle Seahawks: 5 burning questions in 2018

SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 31: Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll shouts from the sidelines during the first half of the game against the Arizona Cardinals at CenturyLink Field on December 31, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr /Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 31: Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll shouts from the sidelines during the first half of the game against the Arizona Cardinals at CenturyLink Field on December 31, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr /Getty Images) /
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1. Will the offensive line actually block something?

I know I know, a bit harsh. But is it? The Seahawk’s offensive line was no better than a dumpster fire last season and it was a huge factor in them missing the playoffs. Now, 2017 could have just been a down year for whatever reason. But fans have little faith in the unit, and for good reason. They have to get better, there’s no debating that. The good thing? It will be nearly impossible for the o-line to be worse than it was in 2017.

Let’s start with the tackle positions because they may be the most polarizing. Former All-Pro Duane Brown holds down the left side better than a lot of other players in the NFL, and most likely, will continue to do just that in 2018. His veteran presence is much needed on a relatively young unit. On the right side, Germain Ifedi needs some work. Drafted in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Ifedi has yet to live up to his potential.

Oddly enough, that is the same situation with D.J. Fluker who had a rough 2017 campaign with the Giants. His skill set is suited to run blocking, which should help the previous question in this series. Fluker will likely start at right guard, while Ethan Pocic will probably start at left guard. Pocic played in both spots last season, but also keep an eye on Rees Odihambo (who can play both guard spots) to challenge for a starting role.

Next: Oakland Raiders: 5 burning questions

Luckily, Justin Britt will undoubtedly start at center and continue to bring stability to the line. George Fant, returning from an ACL tear, will provide depth at the tackle positions and could potentially take over for Ifedi should he continue to struggle. Under new offensive line coach Mike Solari, the unit should take huge strides. Frankly, they are going to have to if the team wishes to compete in the toughest NFC in recent years.