Offensive line architect John Benton stays, keeping continuity in the trenches to fuel the Seahawks' championship defense.
While the confetti has settled since the Seattle Seahawks hoisted the Lombardi Trophy following their 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX, the work behind the scenes has been just as intense as the celebration.
Seattle’s front office faced immediate pressure from other teams hoping to poach members of its coaching staff.
Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak departed for an elevated role with the Las Vegas Raiders, and quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko followed him.
But one of the most important victories of the offseason may be who stayed.
Offensive line coach John Benton is remaining in Seattle, opting not to reunite with Kubiak in Las Vegas. The Seahawks are also reportedly promoting Brian Fleury, formerly the San Francisco 49ers’ run game coordinator and tight ends coach, to offensive coordinator.
That continuity in the trenches could be critical as Seattle attempts to defend its championship.
Benton’s impact in 2025 cannot be overstated.
Just a year earlier, the Seahawks’ offensive line struggled mightily, surrendering 54 sacks - the third-most in the NFL. Protection issues stalled drives and exposed young talent to unnecessary hits. Fast forward to this season, and the turnaround was dramatic.
Seattle allowed only 27 sacks, tied for the fifth-fewest in the league, while showing significant improvement in zone blocking and edge containment.
The growth was evident late in the year. In a thrilling 38-37 overtime win over the Los Angeles Rams in Week 16, Seattle’s line controlled the line of scrimmage in key moments.
That physical identity carried into the postseason, culminating in a dominant Super Bowl performance that paved the way for Kenneth Walker III to earn Super Bowl MVP honors.
Benton’s group wasn’t just effective - it was resilient. Injuries forced adjustments, but backups like Josh Jones stepped in seamlessly, including three consecutive starts at left tackle to close the regular season.
The depth and discipline reflected Benton’s teaching style.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Seahawks may consider upgrading at center and right guard through free agency or the NFL Draft.
But with head coach Mike Macdonald setting a championship standard and Benton continuing to mold a cohesive unit, the foundation is firmly in place.
Repeating in the NFL is notoriously difficult. Still, keeping the architect behind one of the league’s most improved offensive lines might give Seattle its best chance to do exactly that.