As the Seattle Seahawks bask in the glow of their Super Bowl 60 triumph, the business of football never sleeps. With the 2026 regular season opener against the New England Patriots looming on September 9, the defending champions are meticulously assembling their roster. The initial 53-man cutdown is complete, but the real chess match begins now: the practice squad. Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, this tracker will follow every move as Seattle looks to fortify its depth and develop future stars.
The Waiver Wire and Practice Squad Rules
The waiver claiming period for players cut during final roster reductions expired at 10 a.m. PT on Monday, August 31. Once the NFL distributes the official Personnel Notice, teams can begin signing practice squad players. A standard practice squad consists of 16 players, with a 17th slot available for an International Player Pathway Program participant—Seattle has offensive lineman Federico Maranges in that role. It's crucial to note that any player claimed off waivers must be added to the 53-man roster; they cannot be stashed directly on the practice squad. Players with fewer than four accrued seasons are subject to waivers, while veterans like Eric Saubert and Noah Igbinoghene can be released and re-signed more freely, as they are not subject to the waiver process.
Seattle's Waiver Position
Because the Seahawks won the Super Bowl, they hold the 32nd and final priority in the waiver order. This means all 31 other teams get first dibs on any player Seattle might covet. The waiver order is determined by the 2025 regular-season standings, so the champs are at the bottom. This makes Seattle's own released players particularly valuable—if they clear waivers, they can return to the practice squad. The team will need to be strategic, as every other franchise can poach a promising young player before Seattle gets a chance.
Key Veterans to Watch
Several notable veterans could be cut and brought back to the practice squad, a common tactic for teams with deep rosters. Tight end Eric Saubert and cornerback Noah Igbinoghene are prime candidates. Both have accrued seasons that make them unrestricted free agents upon release, allowing them to negotiate directly with Seattle or other teams. The Seahawks have used this approach in past years to maintain experienced depth without occupying a 53-man roster spot. As highlighted on Vulius, these moves are critical for a team with championship aspirations.
Tracking the Signings
As of now, no official practice squad signings have been reported. This section will be updated in real-time as news breaks. Fans can expect a mix of undrafted rookies, developmental projects, and savvy veterans. The Seahawks' front office, led by general manager John Schneider, has a track record of finding hidden gems in the practice squad—players who later contribute significantly to the active roster. Keep an eye on the offensive line and defensive backfield, where depth is always at a premium.
The Road Ahead
The practice squad is more than just a holding pen; it's a vital component of a Super Bowl repeat bid. With the Patriots up first, the Seahawks need every edge. The practice squad will provide emergency depth and allow players to develop within the system. As the season progresses, expect frequent elevations and moves. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Seahawks' ability to navigate this process could be the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit. Stay tuned to this tracker for all the latest updates.
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