The Seattle Seahawks enter Week 18 with no playoff aspirations, having been eliminated from contention. This scenario presents an opportunity for the team to evaluate its younger talent as they prepare for future seasons. Head coach Mike Macdonald is expected to use the game against the Los Angeles Rams to assess five key players who could play significant roles moving forward.

Quarterback Sam Howell stands out in this evaluation. His potential playing time could indicate the team’s confidence in Geno Smith's future, especially as Smith has financial incentives at stake. Howell has had limited opportunities this season, and his performance could influence the coaching staff's decisions regarding the quarterback position.

Another player to watch is cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett, who has been sidelined recently. Despite being a healthy scratch, Pritchett’s previous contributions on special teams and defense warrant a closer look, especially as the Seahawks solidify their cornerback lineup for the future.

Offensive tackle Michael Jerrell is also in a critical position. After starting earlier in the season, he has been a healthy scratch but could see action if the coaching staff opts to rest Abraham Lucas. Jerrell's performance in limited snaps could help determine his role in the upcoming seasons.

Right guard Christian Haynes, a third-round draft pick, has struggled to find playing time. With the offensive line in flux, Haynes needs another opportunity to prove his worth despite losing his starting position to Sataoa Laumea.

Finally, linebacker Drake Thomas has shown promise in limited appearances. With the inside linebacker position needing depth, Thomas could demonstrate his potential in the last game of the season, providing the coaching staff with valuable film to assess his future contributions.

Abe Lucas, the Seattle Seahawks' right tackle, has been activated off the physically unable to perform list and may start this Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. Lucas, a 2022 third-round draft pick, had a strong rookie season but faced challenges due to a knee injury that limited his appearances in 2023.

Head coach Mike Macdonald expressed optimism about Lucas's return, noting that his presence could significantly enhance the offensive line's performance, which has struggled due to injuries to other players.

The Seattle Seahawks' 2024 season has unfolded in two contrasting phases. Initially, they enjoyed a promising 3-0 start, defeating teams with inexperienced quarterbacks. However, they have since faced a challenging 1-5 stretch, with defensive struggles and an ineffective run game under offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb.

Despite Geno Smith leading the league in passing yards, the Seahawks' defense ranks poorly in multiple categories. Injuries and inconsistency plague the offensive line, while young receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba shows potential. With a tough schedule ahead, the team needs to improve significantly to salvage their season.

The Seattle Seahawks are in dire need of a confidence boost after three consecutive losses, heading into a crucial matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. With a struggling run game and significant defensive injuries, the Seahawks (3-3) face a team on a three-game winning streak.

Key storylines include the performance of rookies Nehemiah Pritchett and Michael Jerrell in their first starts, the impact of Atlanta's lackluster pass rush, and whether Seattle can revive its run game. The Seahawks must also contain the Falcons' potent offensive weapons, particularly running back Bijan Robinson and wide receivers Drake London and Darnell Mooney.

As the Seahawks aim to end their losing streak, the stakes are high for playoff positioning in the NFC West.