The documentary series “Hard Knocks” is very popular among NFL fans. Next summer, viewers can look forward to a very special season.
A camera crew has been following one of the NFL teams during preseason and training camp for 25 years. In 2001, the Baltimore Ravens were the first team to open the doors to “Hard Knocks”. The Ravens had just won the Super Bowl and offered exciting insights.
Since then, no reigning Super Bowl winner has been in focus. Until now. Because in 2026 “Hard Knocks” will accompany the Seattle Seahawks. This was reported by “ESPN” at the annual NFL League meeting.
And it’s not just this year’s team that has been decided. The team is already secure for 2027. It’s the New England Patriots, the team that faced the Seahawks in this year’s Super Bowl.
NFL: Seahawks aim to defend their title
Under head coach Mike Macdonald, the Seahawks are entering their third season together – with the clear goal of defending the title. This would allow them to emulate the Kansas City Chiefs, who last won the Super Bowl in 2023 and 2024. The Patriots had previously achieved this in 2003 and 2004.
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A key player remains wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who, as the reigning Offensive Player of the Year, recently signed a four-year, $168.6 million contract, making him the highest-paid receiver in the league. Seattle also relies on quarterback Sam Darnold and a defense that contributed significantly to winning the title.
The Seahawks open the 2026 regular season with a home game on September 9th – although the opponent has not yet been determined. A duel with the Patriots is also a possible option.
Under coach Mike Vrabel and quarterback hope Drake Maye, the Patriots surprised with a strong 14-3 record in the 2025 season after only recording four wins two years in a row.

