The 1996 Seattle Seahawks season was the franchise's 21st season in the National Football League (NFL), the 21st playing their home games at the Kingdome and the second under head coach head coach Dennis Erickson. They were unable to improve on their 8–8 record, finished the season 7–9, and missing the playoffs for the eighth consecutive season. Owner Ken Behring unsuccessfully attempted to move the team to southern California. The team was sold to Paul Allen in June 1997.