The Seattle Seahawks were out to make some big splashes this offseason, possibly landing the services of Peyton Manning to be their new quarterback. They had to settle for Matt Flynn, but as Scouts Inc.'s Matt Wiliamson notes in his 2012 NFL free agency grades, that's not all a bad thing considering he still gave them an A for their moves made this offseason.
Here is Williamson's analysis:
Key additions: QB Matt Flynn, DT Red Bryant (re-sign), RB Marshawn Lynch (re-sign), DT Jason Jones, T Frank Omiyale, RB Michael Robinson (re-sign)
Key losses: TE John Carlson, G Robert Gallery, CB Marcus Trufant, QB Charlie Whitehurst, DT Anthony Hargrove
Analysis: This is an up-and-coming football team. While I am not the biggest Flynn believer, he is a clear improvement at the most important position on the field -- so I can't argue with that acquisition, especially at the price. Seattle is betting on Flynn, but they aren't betting the farm. Keeping Lynch in the fold should ensure that Flynn's transition to his new team is smoother. Bringing back Bryant, the massive run-stuffer, was huge for this young defense, as was adding an exceptional complement to Bryant in Jones, who is one of the better pure interior pass-rushers in the NFL. There are some big names on Seattle's key-losses list, but in reality, this group's value doesn't compare to its name recognition. The Seahawks are on the rise.
Grade: A
With the dominant year the 49er had in 2011 it's good to see that another NFC West team is on the rise alongside of them. This can only make the Carroll vs. Harbaugh meetings that all more exciting.
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