NFL Betting: Seattle Seahawks Notable Offseason Moves

The Seattle Seahawks came within 30 seconds of reaching the NFC Championship game last season. Three key changes could be enough to get them there this year. The Seahawks are listed at +850 to win the Super Bowl this year, listed behind only the NFC West rival San Francisco 49ers in terms of their overall odds to go all the way. Head coach Pete Caroll understands how to put his team in the best position to succeed, and is ready to make another run in 2013.

2013 Super Bowl Odds: +850

Notable Change #1: Wilson Should Be Even Better In Year Two

When the Seahawks traded for quarterback Matt Flynn, the expectation was that he would be the team’s franchise quarterback for at least the next couple of years. However, Carroll was so impressed with rookie third-round pick Russell Wilson that he gave him the starting job out of camp, and never looked back as he took them back to the postseason. This will mark the first time in four years that the Seahawks enter a season without competition for the starting quarterback job, and Wilson is expected to thrive in year two. Wilson’s talent, intelligence, and most importantly his dedication should make him eve more dangerous in year two.

Notable Change #2: Harvin Adds Big Play Potential To Offense, Special Teams

Wilson quickly developed a strong relationship with wide receivers Sidney Rice and Golden Tate both on and off the field, as well as tight end Zach Miller. Seattle didn’t stand pat in the offseason though, adding another big-play threat in Percy Harvin. Harvin can do a big of everything should get his share of snaps line dup both outside and in the backfield in addition to being the primary slot receiver. Harvin can also do damage in both the kick and punt return game, with the potential to go all the way every time he gets his hands on the ball.

Notable Change #3: Avril, Winfield Solidify Defense That Should Rank Among Best In NFL

The Seahawks’ defense was one of the best in the NFL a year ago, led by the league’s best secondary with cornerbacks Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner, as well as safeties Kam Chancellor and Earl Thomas. That secondary will be even better with the addition of Antoine Winfield to handle the nickel role, as he brings a veteran presence and is still one of the game’s best at his position when it comes to making plays against the run. Seattle also added defensive end Cliff Avril to help a pass rush that was far too inconsistent in obvious passing situations, as the Seahawks allowed opponents to convert 38.4-percent of their third-down opportunities. Seattle also added a big body in defensive tackle Jordan Hill with its third-round pick, and then took Alabama nose tackle Jesse Williams in the fifth round to solidify a deep tackle rotation.