The Seattle Seahawks have been one of the most successful teams in the NFL over the past decade, but one area they have struggled in is third down efficiency. Last season, the Seahawks ranked 23rd in the league in third down conversion rate, converting just 35.2% of their attempts.
The Seahawks have made it a priority this offseason to improve their third down efficiency. They have added several new players to their offense, including wide receiver Phillip Dorsett and running back Carlos Hyde, who both have the ability to make big plays on third downs. The team also drafted tight end Colby Parkinson in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, who could be a key contributor on third down situations.
The Seahawks have also made changes to their coaching staff, hiring offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo. Both coaches have a history of success in developing offenses that are effective on third down. Waldron was the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams last season, and the Rams had the second-best third down conversion rate in the NFL. DeFilippo was the offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings in 2017 and 2018, and during those two seasons the Vikings had the fourth-best third down conversion rate in the league.
The Seahawks are hoping that these changes will help them improve their third down efficiency. If they can get their offense clicking on third downs, it could be a major boost for their offense and help them make a deep run in the playoffs this season.