PRESEASON POWER RANKINGS

NO. 10

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Though the Seahawks followed their failed trip to the Super Bowl with a return to the NFC divisional playoffs, there's a strong sense that the window is closing on this team's ability to win it all.  Running back Shaun Alexander is starting to break down, putting more pressure on the passing game to perform.  Receiver Deion Branch was a disappointment in his first year in Seattle, as was Nate Burleson.  The offensive line still hasn't recovered from the loss of Steve Hutchinson.  The only positive move on offense this past offseason was the decision to let tight end Jerramy Stevens walk away via free agency, replacing him with veteran Marcus Pollard, who still has something left in the tank.

The defense has improved a bit, albeit two years too late.  Safety Deon Grant and defensive end Patrick Kerney are high-priced additions, who made Ken Hamlin and Grant Wistrom, respectively, expendable. 

Coach Mike Holmgren was rumored to be considering calling it quits in 2005, but that Super Bowl appearance re-ignited his fire.  We're surprised he's back for 2007, and it could be his last year.  Maybe they 'Hawks can win the Big One for the Big Show.

Key departures:  S Ken Hamlin, WR Darrell Jackson, CB Kelly Herndon, TE Jerramy Stevens.

Key arrivals:  S Deon Grant, DE Patrick Kerney, TE Marcus Pollard, S Brian Russell.

Draft pick most likely to make an impact:  CB/KR Josh Wilson.

Coach's current job security:  He'll retire before he'd be fired.