How Seahawks GM John Schneider’s ‘Chasing Edges’ Strategy Brought the Team Back to Playoff Contention

Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider is, in one word, obsessed with “chasing edges.” Yes, you heard that right. Just when you think the Seahawks might hit a plateau this season, Schneider comes up with new tricks and strategies. From the Pete Carroll era to now with Mike Macdonald, he’s always asking “what’s next” – which is basically an adrenaline rush in the NFL world.

“Whether it’s centered around sports science or AI, whatever we can do to get better and wrap our minds around it and not get stuck in our old ways,” Schneider explained how the Seahawks adopt new approaches for improvement. It’s not just about acquisitions; the focus is clear – both acquisitions and development matter equally.

The two-year partnership is already showing results, with the Seahawks sitting at a 2-1 record, preparing for a crucial NFC West matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. About Macdonald, Schneider said, “Mike’s great… So, we’re still in that phase. We’re trying to learn each other. But the cool thing is there’s like a real cool clarity with him.”

On the offensive side, the Seahawks made smart moves. After moving on from Ryan Grubb, they brought in Klint Kubiak and John Benton – both experts in the old-school zone blocking system. The offensive line now plays to the echo of the whistle. “Sam [Darnold] had a play where he threw the ball to [Eric] Saubert last week, and guys really finished in a strong manner, pushing the pile,” Schneider said.

Mike Macdonald said on @SeattleSports this play is example of "shocking effort" he wants Seahawks to play with. Eric Saubert is initially stopped around the 5, then pushed by teammates to the 1 (K9 scored next play).

“That (play) will be shown today," he said. pic.twitter.com/fDPWrNrXK4
— Dugar, Michael-Shawn (@MikeDugar) September 22, 2025

Regarding quarterback Darnold, Schneider noted, “I just believe a quarterback has to play and get those reps… Nobody comes into the league has their s— totally lit… This is how we play-action off it. These are our keys to certain reads.”

The young roster and development-focused drafting are key to the Seahawks’ new strategy. Over the last four drafts, Schneider has drafted 20 starters or solid contributors. Among the newcomers, Tory Horton stands out. Though compared to Justin Jefferson, Schneider clarified, “I don’t see that. It’s not close… He’s probably more buttoned up from a route-running ability than Justin in terms of football savviness, but Justin’s a freak”.

Said it once, we'll say it again. Tory Horton hype train. 🚂

📺: CBS pic.twitter.com/Lfo0etftoa
— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) September 21, 2025

Clearly, the Seahawks are moving forward with fresh energy. The combination of this management duo, new strategies, and young talent is shaping a playoff-ready Seahawks team.