NFL Season Kickoff: Seahawks Face Patriots in Super Bowl Rematch

Updated September 09, 2026, 9:21 PM EDT By Andrew Greif, Rohan Nadkarni, and Greg Rosenstein

The NFL season opens with a gripping Super Bowl rematch between the Seahawks and the Patriots. The game unfolds with Seattle missing star running back Kenneth Walker III as he contributes his talents to Kansas City. Meanwhile, New England integrates newly-acquired wide receiver A.J. Brown into their lineup, potentially boosting their performance for the season.

Challenges for the Seahawks

Seattle’s attempt to maintain momentum has been hampered by their own errors. Multiple penalties disrupted a promising drive, despite Drew Lock’s 21-yard connection with Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Another penalty nullified their advancement, marking six flags for 68 yards against Seattle, while the Patriots remain penalty-free.

Patriots Capitalize Early

Taking advantage of Seattle’s mistakes, the Patriots scored first. After a flea flicker drew a pass interference call, quarterback Drake Maye connected with Eli Raridon for a two-yard touchdown. This concluded a 10-play, 77-yard drive, putting New England ahead 7-0.

Seahawks Struggle on Offense

Without starting quarterback Sam Darnold, who exited due to a hip injury, Seattle’s offense struggled. Drew Lock’s performance was unsteady, with Seattle managing only 37 yards over nine plays in his two offensive attempts.

Quarterback Challenges

Sam Darnold started the game strong, completing his initial passes, but his night was cut short. His departure due to a hip injury left Drew Lock in charge, whose career includes 34 touchdowns and 28 interceptions. Darnold’s status remained uncertain as Lock stepped up.

An Even First Quarter

The initial quarter saw a defensive standoff, with the teams combining for only 99 yards. Seattle is adjusting to a game plan without their primary quarterback.

Roster and Strategic Adjustments

Seattle is adjusting its roster following a successful Super Bowl run. The departure of key players like Kenneth Walker III, now with Kansas City, and Klint Kubiak, who became head coach for the Raiders, prompted new play-calling strategies led by Brian Fleury. Defensively, they lost Coby Bryant, who transitioned to Chicago.

Key Patriots Strategy

Drake Maye must overcome past struggles against Seattle’s defense. The Seahawks dominated him in the Super Bowl with their Cover 6 defense. Maye faces a challenging schedule, opening with games against strong playoff teams, starting with Seattle.

Financial Highlights

The Patriots secured Christian Gonzalez with a lucrative contract, emphasizing his importance to the team. His agreement entails $102 million guaranteed, surpassing Seattle corner Devon Witherspoon’s contract.

Season Outlook

The Seahawks aim to join an elite group of teams to win consecutive Super Bowls, while the Patriots contend with a demanding schedule, aiming to emulate their dominant Super Bowl run.