Seahawks Face Six-Game Losing Streak vs. 49ers in NFC West Opener

The Seattle Seahawks face significant changes entering the 2025 season, having traded key players Geno Smith and DK Metcalf, and released veteran Tyler Lockett, drawing mixed reactions from analysts about whether the team has improved. Despite criticism from ESPN's Ben Solak, some argue that new additions like Sam Darnold, Cooper Kupp, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling could fit well in the Seahawks' revamped offense, alongside promising draft picks such as offensive lineman Grey Zabel. The Seahawks also aim to break a concerning streak of losing three consecutive home games against NFC West rival San Francisco 49ers, a feat not previously extended to four in a row since joining the NFC West. Meanwhile, the 49ers are managing optimism following contract extensions for stars like George Kittle and Fred Warner but face questions about their young defense, which relies heavily on rookies to rebound from a 6-11 season marked by injuries. The 49ers also contend with an aging core and significant offseason losses on defense, raising doubts about their ability to reclaim the NFC West crown against rivals like the Rams. Both teams will renew their rivalry in the 2025 season opener at Lumen Field, with Seattle eager to improve its home record and assert its playoff ambitions.