When it comes to moving the ball, we all know the names Russell Wilson, Tyler Lockett, and DK Metcalf. This big three will be counted on again in 2020 to lead the Seattle Seahawks into the end zone time and time again.
But there are plenty of other names who could be called over and over as they help the Seahawks navigate their way through opposing defenses. I originally had almost 10 names on my list of potential weapons for Seattle in 2020, but I narrowed it down to the five I believe will make the greatest impact once the ‘Hawks take the field this season.
Greg Olsen
A veteran like Olsen brings so much more to the table than just what he can provide ON the field. A strong locker room presence and respectability is always good, especially when it includes a young, but extremely talented, group of tight ends who can learn from Olsen. It’s no secret the 35-year-old has struggled with injuries during his career, but he was still good enough to pull in 52 receptions last season, and more than good enough to be a reliable safety valve for Russ in the passing game.
Will Dissly
Before his sophomore season was unceremoniously cut short by an achilles injury, the University of Washington product was putting together a breakout season, catching 23 of his 27 targets and six touchdowns in just six games. Dissly is working his way back to the field, most recently seen wearing pads at practice, and should be ready to go for the season opener. Despite the crowded tight end room – which also includes Olsen, Jacob Hollister, and Colby Parkinson – Dissly should find plenty of reps after establishing a rapport with Wilson in the early part of the 2019 season.
Chris Carson
Carson posted his second straight 1,000-yard campaign in 2019 – despite an aggravating seven fumbles – and finished fifth in the NFL with 1,230 yards and six 100-yard outings. The fourth year man out of Oklahoma State is also a proven weapon in the passing game, catching 37 of his 47 targets. If he can continue to produce as he has the past two years – and improve his ball security – Carson should not only find himself among the league’s top rushers, but in the Pro Bowl as well.
Rashaad Penny
With Carson firmly entrenched as the feature back, don’t expect Penny’s workload to increase, but his production should still be just as valuable as it has been in each of his previous two seasons, which includes almost 1,000 total yards on just 160 touches. The former first-round pick is still a great change of pace option in the backfield that will allow the Seahawks to stay aggressive in the run game when he spells Carson or gets on the field in third down situations.
Phillip Dorsett II
This is the one I’ll be watching most closely. Dorsett joins Seattle as a slot receiver with blazing speed – head coach Pete Carroll has called Dorsett the fastest player he’s coached during his time with the Seahawks – with an opportunity to start new after five subpar seasons with the Colts and Patriots. In 71 career games, Dorsett’s numbers are not what you’d expect from a former first-round pick (124 catches, 1634 yards, 11 TDs). With Lockett and Metcalf getting the majority of the attention on the outside, Dorsett could find himself reaping the rewards and finding room in the middle of the field to pull in passes from Wilson.