Three Important Non-Stars to Help the 2026 Seahawks Run it Forward
The Sea Hawkers Podcast dives into the unsung heroes of the 2026 Seahawks offense, arguing that true team success won’t come from star power but from three under-the-radar players who could be the backbone of a repeat championship run. Hosts Brandon Schultz, Clinton Bonner, and Adam Emmert spotlight Torrey Horton, whose return from injury could unlock a dynamic deep threat for Sam Darnold; Eric Saubert, a gritty, low-profile tight end whose blocking prowess is essential for a dominant run game; and Jalen Sundell, the young center whose mental processing and continuity with the offensive line could be the linchpin in maintaining offensive cohesion after the transition from Clint Kubiak to Brian Flurry. The episode challenges the notion that only high-impact stat lines matter, emphasizing instead the critical role of role players who execute their duties flawlessly under pressure. With the Seahawks’ Super Bowl win built on depth and consistency, the trio argues that these three non-stars—especially Sundell—may be the most important pieces in running it forward. The discussion reveals a deeper philosophy: offensive success in the modern NFL hinges less on flashy plays and more on invisible, disciplined execution. Saubert’s value isn’t in receptions but in creating lanes; Horton’s impact is measured in how much he forces defenses to adjust; and Sundell’s intelligence and experience allow the entire unit to function like a well-oiled machine.
Jalen Sundell’s mental processing and continuity with Sam Darnold and Gray Zabel are critical for maintaining offensive cohesion after the Kubiak-to-Flurry transition.
Eric Saubert’s value lies in his elite blocking, not receptions—his role as a 'glue guy' enables the run game to thrive without needing star stats.
Torrey Horton’s return from injury could provide the deep-speed weapon needed to counter elite Rams corners in late-season playoff matchups.
The Seahawks’ 2026 success may depend more on role players than stars, with depth and consistency being the real foundation of their championship culture.
A center’s intelligence and experience—like Sundell’s—can be more valuable than raw athleticism in sustaining a high-performing offensive line.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome to the Show: Offseason Buzz and Team Depth
The hosts kick off the episode with a warm welcome, setting the stage for a deep dive into the Seahawks' 2026 offensive outlook. They reflect on recent offseason developments, including player returns from injury and the team’s accelerated offseason pace, while teasing the focus on non-star contributors who will drive the team forward.
Injury Updates and Depth Chart Realities
The hosts discuss minor injuries to AJ Barner and Anthony Bradford, analyzing how the team is using the offseason to evaluate depth. Christian Haynes stepping in for Bradford is framed as a strategic move to test a young player’s readiness, highlighting the importance of depth beyond the starters.
Brian Flurry’s Stoic Leadership and Offensive Continuity
The hosts explore the new offensive coordinator Brian Flurry, noting his stoic demeanor and seamless transition from Clint Kubiak. They emphasize the value of stability in leadership, especially during a high-pressure offseason, and how Flurry’s calmness could help maintain offensive consistency.
The Core Thesis: Non-Stars as the Foundation of a Repeat
“I think there's several really key dudes that in 2026, I expect them to be like big time contributors. And to me, Brandon, that doesn't mean stat lines. It's more like you know when you see it and if they're a role player, they play their role really, really well.”
Torrey Horton: The Return of the Deep Threat
“I can't help but think that if we see a full season of this player in the Seahawks offense, that he is going to be a big time contributor.”
“I can't help but think that if we see a full season of this player in the Seahawks offense, that he is going to be a big time contributor.”
“He's one of these guys in the league that all great teams have glue guys and Eric Saubert feels like a glue guy and he's been around the league.”
“Having that continuity between him and Sam Bradford, I think that that could go a long way.”
Host
Guests
Seattle Seahawks
organization
Adam Emmert
person
Clinton Bonner
person
Jalen Sundell
person
Brandon Schultz
person
Eric Saubert
person
Torrey Horton
person
Sam Darnold
person
NFL
organization
Brian Flurry
person
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