While the OL narrative has dominated for the last few years, and seems loudest at this stage, I kind of think we may be a bit more open to multiple options.
This defense is clearly broken in it's current state. The reasons could be debatable. And likely multiple.
To me, the ills of this season are blatantly obvious. This is not a team that is supposed to allow spirit crushing multiple 80 yard drives at the end of games to lose them. It's a team that has had horrific issues getting off the field on third down. How much of that is secondary related? How much is anemic pass rush? How much is stupid/avoidable Bennett bail out penalties on third and long? The reasons are so varied.
It's weird, because we're generally in the top 8 or so in most categories defensively. But it does seem that there is a very real and tangible lack of ability to force the issue at clutch times. And repeatedly so.
If I had to put a finger on it, I'm going with general lack of interior pocket collapse. Opposing QBs are far too comfortable with the lack of in the face pressure. And our good pass outside pass rush is too easily negated by moving a step up into a clean pocket.
Seattle has seen us focus the last several years on offense. 2015 (Graham), 2014 (Richardson/Britt), 2013 (Harvin/Michael), 2011 (Carpenter/Moffitt). The defense is really getting 'old'. At least in terms of contract age. Essentially the entire defense is now on their 2nd contracts. We have one rookie contract playing in the starting 11. But it's going to expire in 5 games. With a high expectation it'll walk out the door.
The unit definitely needs a youth infusion here.
