With the Seattle Seahawks officially eliminated from playoff contention, their Week 18 matchup against the Rams has become a game of individual milestones and draft implications. While head coach Mike Macdonald has made it clear the Seahawks will play to win, fans and analysts are left wondering if they should consider the benefits of improving their draft slot.
What’s at Stake?
On the surface, the game appears to have little relevance for the Seahawks’ overall season. A win would bring their record to 10-7, marking their first double-digit win season since 2020 and a winning record within the NFC West. However, a loss could improve their position in the 2025 NFL Draft, where Seattle currently holds the 18th pick—the first among non-playoff teams.
The Seahawks last selected at 18th overall in 1987, drafting Tony Woods. A win against the Rams would lock in that spot, while a loss opens a slim possibility of moving up to 16th.
Draft Scenarios: Can Seattle Pick Higher?
If the Seahawks lose to the Rams and other results align, they could potentially move up to the 16th draft slot. Here’s how the dominoes need to fall:
- Teams to Watch:
- The Bengals, Dolphins, and Falcons all have slim playoff chances but could finish 9-8.
- The Broncos, currently in a playoff spot, could also finish 9-8 if they lose.
- Tiebreaker Conundrum:
Even if Seattle ties with these teams at 9-8, they likely remain higher in the standings due to owning head-to-head or strength-of-victory tiebreakers. This means Seattle would still draft lower than those teams, limiting the likelihood of significant upward movement. - Best-Case Draft Position:
Under the most favorable conditions, the Seahawks could land the 16th pick. However, this requires Denver to secure a playoff spot, Atlanta to win the NFC South, and Seattle to lose to the Rams while other scenarios align.
The Case for Playing to Win
Head coach Mike Macdonald dismissed the idea of tanking, emphasizing the team’s commitment to winning. For the Seahawks, playing to win serves several purposes:
- Momentum: A 10-win season signals progress and boosts team morale heading into the offseason.
- Individual Achievements: Players like Geno Smith, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Leonard Williams can hit personal milestones and incentives, fostering a winning culture.
- Player Development: A competitive final game allows younger players to gain valuable experience.
The Case for Prioritizing the Draft
From a long-term perspective, improving draft position could benefit the Seahawks as they continue to build a roster capable of contending. A higher pick at 16th would provide better access to top-tier talent, particularly in areas of need like offensive line depth or defensive playmakers.
However, with the draft pick likely locked at 18th regardless of Week 18 outcomes, the potential benefits of losing may not outweigh the value of finishing strong.
Conclusion: A Win-Win Scenario?
The Seahawks find themselves in a rare position where their Week 18 result might not significantly impact their draft fate. A win secures a morale-boosting 10-7 record, while a loss offers only a faint chance at improving their draft position.
Whether they finish on a high note or prioritize long-term strategy, the Seahawks have laid a solid foundation for the future. The 2025 offseason promises to be pivotal, with ample draft capital and a core of developing talent ready to take the next step.