Seahawks' Trades for Leonard Williams and Ernest Jones Prove Crucial for Super Bowl Win

The Seattle Seahawks, under head coach Mike Macdonald, made strategic trades for defensive players Leonard Williams and Ernest Jones, which played a pivotal role in their Super Bowl victory in 2026. Macdonald, who aimed to reshape the team, began his tenure with a 10-7 record in his first season, just missing the playoffs.

Williams was acquired from the New York Giants when they were looking to offload players during a poor season. The Seahawks signed him to a three-year deal after the season. Meanwhile, Jones was traded from the Tennessee Titans after struggling to secure an extension with the Rams. Both players quickly became integral to the Seahawks' defense, with Williams recording 11 sacks and Jones making 94 tackles in just 10 games.

Following their successful 2026 season, the Seahawks continued to bolster their defense, signing DeMarcus Lawrence and drafting safety Nick Emmanwori. Both Williams and Jones earned second-team All-Pro honors, showcasing their impact on the field. This week, they will face off against Kenneth Walker III, their former teammate, who leads the NFL in rushing yards.