Seahawks defence targets process over past glory in Patriots rematch
Defensive coordinator Aden Durde says Seattle must dominate early downs and create takeaways while guarding against complacency after its reported Super Bowl LX win over New England.
Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde has set a process-driven target for the team’s defence as it prepares for a reported rematch with the New England Patriots: pressure opponents early, force difficult down-and-distance situations and create game-changing turnovers.
Speaking to Fox Sports, Durde said Seattle wanted to “dominate early down football” and increase its takeaways. He said the focus should remain on the team’s daily preparation and film study rather than the identity of the opponent.
The approach follows a 2025 season in which Fox Sports reported that Seattle allowed a league-low 17.2 points per game. The Seahawks also ranked second in rushing yards allowed and sixth in takeaways.
Fox Sports reported that Seattle’s defence produced six sacks, 11 quarterback hits, eight forced punts and three turnovers in its Super Bowl LX win over New England. Those figures form the backdrop to the Patriots rematch, but Durde said the previous result should not shape the team’s preparation.
Leonard Williams said conversations with former Seahawks Richard Sherman and Kam Chancellor, as well as his father-in-law Ronnie Lott, had reinforced the need to avoid complacency. Seattle’s stated objective is to reproduce the defensive standards of last season, although Durde’s plans do not guarantee the same results.
