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Competition on Seahawks o-line starting to come clear

Arizona Cardinals v Seattle Seahawks

Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images

Almost two weeks into training camp, and the starting offensive line for 2025 is starting to look a lot like the starting offensive line from 2024.

The long wait of the offseason is nearly over for Seattle Seahawks fans, with the start of the 2025 preseason just days with Mike Macdonald set to lead the team against his predecessor Pete Carroll and the Las Vegas Raiders Thursday at Lumen Field.

With the start of the preseason, one of the biggest questions of the offseason has been how the team would address the offensive line, a bottom performing unit for most of the past two decades. There were hopes of a splash signing in free agency, but as is often the case, the biggest names to hit the market received the biggest contracts from other teams, leaving Seattle to address its needs elsewhere.

The Hawks, of course, did sign free agent swing tackle Josh Jones to a one-year contract in March, and while Jones is set to fill in while starting left tackle Charles Cross recovers from finger surgery, there’s no expectation that anyone other than Cross will man the position when he’s healthy. On the other end of the offensive line, there’s no expectation that anyone other than Abe Lucas will be at right tackle as long as his surgically repaired knee allows.

That leaves the interior of the offensive line to be sorted out, a group that struggled mightily during much of the 2024 season.

At left guard, there is zero question that Grey Zabel will start as long as he’s healthy. The 23 year old may have a steep learning curve, moving from the level of competition faced at FCS level North Dakota State to lining up across from NFL caliber defenders every snap. However, between his athleticism and his status as a first-round pick, there’s no reason to believe his role as a starter is in jeopardy, even if there are early career struggles as there are for many young offensive linemen.

Thus, the question becomes the direction the team will go at center and right guard, two positions where there was no shortage of debate during the 2024 campaign. Olu Oluwatimi and Jalen Sundell, who both started down the stretch after the abrupt retirement of Connor Williams midseason.

Right guard has even more names involved in the competition, with Sundell getting a look there, as well as Christian Haynes, Anthony Bradford and Sataoa Laumea, who all saw playing time during the 2024 season. Add in some fans clamoring for 2025 sixth round pick Bryce Cabeldue, and there are plenty of names in the mix.

However, regardless of how many names are in the mix, as training camp approaches the two week mark, the names that appear to be moving to the front are the same names that were at the top of the depth chart for much of the 2024 campaign.

At center, every report from training camp makes it appear as though Oluwatimi will retain his starting role heading into the regular season, which makes that discussion pretty simple, and leaves only right guard. Reading the tea leaves at right guard is far from as cut and dried as it is at center, but as of today, reports appear to have Bradford distancing himself from the others.

Putting all of those pieces together, for the moment the 2025 starting offensive line appears to be:

  • LT Charles Cross
  • LG Grey Zabel
  • C Olu Oluwatimi
  • RG Anthony Bradford
  • RT Abe Lucas

That is a starting group that would be one of the youngest, least experienced lines in the entire NFL, four of the five were starters on the 2024 offensive line that saw so many struggles. There is no shortage of metrics to demonstrate the shortcomings of the line in 2024, but the ability of the group to allow quick pressure is what grabbed much of the attention in Ryan Grubb’s pass happy offense.


Highest quick pressure rate allowed on standard dropbacks last year:
+ Chiefs (33% pressure)
+ Patriots (31%)
+ Saints (29%)
+ Browns (28%)
+ Seahawks (28%)

Best OLs: Bucs, Packers, Lions.

— Hayden Winks (@HaydenWinks) July 22, 2025​
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However, while it appears most of the names will remain the same, the offensive line could improve by way of the fact that the Seahawks are set to deploy a different offensive scheme, with different coaches in position to train the youngsters. Gone are Ryan Grubb and Scott Huff, replaced by Klint Kubiak, Rick Dennison and John Benton, who spent the 2024 season with the New Orleans Saints.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/2025/8/4...-come-clear-oluwatimi-bradford-sundell-haynes
 
News and notes from Day 11 of Seahawks training camp: Kenneth Walker still out

NFL: Seattle Seahawks Training Camp

Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Kenneth Walker’s sore foot has kept him out of another practice.

The Seattle Seahawks held an early Monday morning practice after taking Sunday off. It’s game week for Seattle, whose preseason opener is Thursday at Lumen Field against the Las Vegas Raiders.

This practice was closed to the public and no coaches were available for media interviews—Mike Macdonald was also away from the team due to a personal matter—so this is going to be a fairly light report.

News and Notes​


Kenneth Walker III among notable Seahawks not practicing

Walker has been dealing with a sore foot, which no doubt is a sore spot for Seahawks fans who’ve lamented his injury history. There’s no word on when he’ll return to practice, and Mike Macdonald already indicated on Saturday that we won’t see the regular starters against the Raiders.

Welcome back, Charles Cross!

Team drills are still a no-go, but positional drills are still there for the Seahawks left tackle, who recently had finger surgery.

So much for back in late August.

Starting left tackle Charles Cross back on starting offensive line in position drills #Seahawks training camp practice 11. It’s less than a week after surgery to repair a dislocated ring finger on his right hand.

Yeah, he’ll start the opener pic.twitter.com/UYHWgINd1A

— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) August 4, 2025
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Olu Oluwatimi also out, Tyrice Knight ends practice early

No word on why Oluwatimi didn’t practice on Monday, but the third-year center was absent. Jalen Sundell had all of the snaps with the starters. On the defensive side of the ball, Tyrice Knight didn’t complete practice.

Olu Oluwatimi also not here today so Jalen Sundell handled all center snaps with the starters.

— Bob Condotta (@bcondotta) August 4, 2025
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Charles Cross only did individual work. Tyrice Knight sat out end of practice with leg injury.

— Bob Condotta (@bcondotta) August 4, 2025
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Derick Hall gets into a little practice scuffle

What I saw, heard, thought of the 11th practice of #Seahawks training camp, ⁦@USCG⁩ day here #SemperParatus #GoArmy

-more rookie Tory Horton with the 1s
-more Anthony Bradford as clear RG1
-no Mike Macdonald
-a Derick Hall dust-up after he held Sam Darnold post-pass pic.twitter.com/XzLCkDTmlJ

— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) August 4, 2025
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Tacoma News Tribune’s Gregg Bell reported that Derick Hall was holding Sam Darnold after the ball was thrown, and that was enough for some offensive linemen to take offense. Hall was thrown out of practice last year after getting into it with Christian Haynes, then there was the infamous scrap with Jarran Reed during the Buffalo Bills game.

Riq Woolen hypes up Tory Horton, who continues to get reps with the 1s

The Seahawks had Horton getting stretches of reps with the first-team last Friday and Saturday, and that continued on Monday for the rookie out of Colorado State. Horton was considered a steal of a fifth-round pick, with a knee injury the only real reason his stock dropped.

Fourth-year corner Riq Woolen crashed Horton’s presser to tell everyone what he thinks about his new teammate.

#Seahawks CB Riq Woolen just walked past rookie WR Tory Horton’s press conference after practice and said “Jerry Rice Jr!” pic.twitter.com/PfWITYINjo

— Alyssa Charlston-Smith (@Alyssacharlston) August 4, 2025
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Shaun Alexander shows up to practice

As part of an annual Seahawks tradition, the team hosted Seattle-area military members for USAA Salute to Service NFL Boot Camp Day. The guests got to challenge themselves in common NFL combine drills such as the 40-yard dash, broad jump, three-cone shuttle, receiving gauntlet, and the QB arm challenge.

Yo know who was also there? A certain former league MVP.

Shaun Alexander 2005 NFL MVP here with ⁦@USAA⁩ at #Seahawks training camp fo ⁦@USCG day, in letterman-style jacket with 2 of his daughters in tow. We caught up. Told me abT his/his wife’s 13(!) kids ages 2-21 +the high school he’s started in suburban DC where they live pic.twitter.com/C7kms517GX

— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) August 4, 2025
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The Seahawks will have a public practice in Renton on Tuesday, Aug. 5 at 1 pm PT.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/2025/8/4...-seahawks-training-camp-kenneth-walker-injury
 
Seahawks training camp 2025: Full coverage, previews, analysis, news, updates, and more

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It’s time for season two under Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald.

This has been an extraordinarily busy offseason for the Seahawks in terms of roster changes and coaching staff adjustments. While much of the defense and defensive staff remains intact, it’s a different story for the offense. Geno Smith, Tyler Lockett, DK Metcalf, and Noah Fant are among the major departures, while Ryan Grubb and Scott Huff have been replaced as offensive coordinator and offensive line coach, respectively. Sam Darnold and Cooper Kupp were the top FA acquisitions on offense, whereas first-round pick Grey Zabel was the major addition to the offensive line, and Alabama’s Jalen Milroe became only the third quarterback drafted by John Schneider. There were still some notable new players brought in on defense, including the return of cornerback Shaquill Griffin and veteran Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence.

As the new-look Seahawks near the start of their 50th season, there will be a lot of close attention paid to this highly touted rookie class, as well as the many camp battles across offense, defense, and special teams. Will Jalen Milroe be the QB2 over Drew Lock? Can Damien Martinez become the RB3 over Kenny McIntosh? How many receivers will the Seahawks roster? Who will start at right guard and center? Will any undrafted free agents make the team, as we’ve seen so often for the Seahawks over the years? We’ll find out the answers to all of those questions very soon.

As always, Seahawks training camp takes place at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center (VMAC) in Renton. The first training camp practice is on July 23, with one special practice at Lumen Field on August 2. The preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders is on August 7, also at Lumen Field. Fans can attend a total of 10 public practices from opening camp day until the second week of preseason.

Field Gulls is your place for complete coverage of 2025 Seahawks training camp, including previews, roster news, analysis, updates, quotes from Mike Macdonald and his coaching staff, player interview quotes, and more!

Seattle Seahawks 2025 training camp dates​


Wednesday, July 23 (1 pm) – Season Ticket Holder Day (and their guests)

Friday, July 25 (1 pm)

Saturday, July 26 (1 pm) – Back Together Weekend

Monday, July 28 (1 pm) – Kids Day

Thursday, July 31 (9:45 am) – Season Ticket Holder Day (and their guests)

Friday, Aug. 1 (1 pm)

Saturday, Aug. 2 (6 pm) – Football Fan Fest at Lumen Field

Tuesday, Aug. 5 (1 pm) – Kids Day

Sunday, Aug. 10 (9:45 am)

Tuesday, Aug. 12 (1 pm)

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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/2025/7/2...-camp-coverage-previews-analysis-news-updates
 
Mike Macdonald provides Seahawks injury updates, including on Olu Oluwatimi and Tyrice Knight

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The Seattle Seahawks held one of their final public practices in Renton on Tuesday, aka the day before the day before their preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders. While Kenneth Walker returned following three straight days absent with a sore foot, several other notable Seahawks sat out for the day.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald, back after missing Monday’s practice for a family matter, provided updates on injured players, as well as cornerback Shaquill Griffin, who finally returned to practice after missing all of last week due to a personal matter. Griffin isn’t injured, but he’ll be eased back into practice after missing so much of training camp.

Here’s what Macdonald had to say regarding the other injured players.

Olu Oluwatimi, center​


“His back tightened up a little bit. We don’t think it’s [serious]. It’s really day-to-day at this point.”

Jalen Sundell has been the primary center since Monday, with rookies Bryce Cabeldue and Federico Maranges getting backup reps.

Tyrice Knight, linebacker​


“Yeah, same thing [that he’s day-to-day]. He just got a little tangle with his knee. So, we’re getting it imaged and kind of go from there.”

Knight did not finish Monday’s practice and had a wrapping on his leg.

Josh Ross, linebacker​


“Josh had surgery on his hand. He should be back soon.”

Steven Sims, wide receiver​


“We’re getting closer. It’s probably day-to-day at this point. Maybe a couple more days.”

Macdonald also noted that Montorie Foster Jr also has a hamstring injury, which Field Gulls observed at Friday’s practice.

Sims is listed as one of the primary special teams returners, alongside Seahawks rookie Tory Horton.

Mike Morris, defensive end​


“Just getting him tested out right now, it’s just like a lower body. It felt funny, so we just took care of him.”

Chris Stoll, long snapper​


“No update on him. It’s positive. He’s getting better, but we just don’t know long it’s going to take.”

Stoll’s back acted up on Friday, leading to Brady Russell getting long snapper duties on Saturday. Seattle signed Zach Triner to take Stoll’s place while he recovers.

Jonathan Hankins, nose tackle​


“No update with Hankins.”

Hankins has been on the NFI list with a back injury.


You can watch the full press conference below!
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...ks-injury-updates-olu-oluwatimi-tyrice-knight
 
Seahawks vs. Raiders preview: What to watch for in preseason opener

Geno Smith and Pete Carroll… as Raiders.


Get ready, 12s! The Seattle Seahawks kick off their 2025 preseason against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday, August 7, at 7:00 PM PT at Lumen Field. Join hosts Bryce Coutts and Ryan MacMillan on the HawksZone Rundown for a packed show with insights for the 12s.

This game marks the emotional return of Pete Carroll (Raiders HC, former Seahawks coach) and Geno Smith (Raiders QB, former Seahawk), facing a new Seahawks era under Mike Macdonald and OC Klint Kubiak.

Players to Watch: Seattle’s Byron Murphy II and Christian Haynes aim to dominate on the line, while Ty Okada fights for a safety spot. For the Raiders, Tyree Wilson and rookie Ashton Jeanty are threats to watch.

Bryce: “Christian Haynes has to have a good preseason. Like, he can still be in this battle, but clearly John Benton doesn’t put up with guys making mental mistakes. He doesn’t put up with guys that won’t give effort. Christian Haynes has to go out and show that he can kind of take this job and just hang on to it, but he’s got to be healthy to do that.”
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Ex-Seahawks return: Carroll, Smith, and Jamal Adams bring familiarity, but the 12s will make Lumen Field a tough environment for the visitors.

Ryan: “I think it’s a matter of time they get they do get a statue [of Pete Carroll] in there.”
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Expectations without starters: With Sam Darnold and Jaxon Smith-Njigba sitting, Jalen Milroe will take the spotlight at quarterback in Kubiak’s offense. Watch the right guard battle between Christian Haynes and Anthony Bradford, the backup tackle race with Josh Jones and Michael Jerrell, the returner competition featuring Tory Horton, George Holani, Steven Sims, and Jake Bobo, and the WR5/6 fight among Cody White, Ricky White, and Steven Sims.

Bryce: I think someone [who] could be a interesting piece for the Seahawks future is Mike Jerrell. He has moved from right tackle to left tackle and he looks so much more comfortable as a left tackle this year, that I think there’s a chance he makes this roster as the backup left tackle. Josh Jones will be the backup right tackle. I think Mike Jerrell really has put himself in a good position to make this team this year.
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Klint Kubiak’s scheme: The 12s will see a run-heavy attack with a strong emphasis on the ground game, opening up the intermediate passing game. Tight ends Elijah Arroyo and Brady Russell, along with receivers like Cody White and Ricky White, will be key targets in the middle of the field.

Bryce: “There’s so much under center. There’s so much boot action. They ran a formation I swear I haven’t seen since Mack Strong was on this team, which was a tight end on the field, an offset-I. So they had the fullback lined up offset over the left guard, the tight end’s on the right side and the tailbacks in the back field and ran basically counter. I was gushing over it because it went for I think seven yards with Zach Charbonnet and Robbie Ouzts and the starting offense. But I was like, this is something we haven’t seen in however many years, right?

“Like, this is again something that we haven’t seen from this offense and their commitment even in the scrimmage to run the ball is evident, and some of the concepts that Klint Kubak’s got with attacking the middle field are just brilliant.”
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Final Thoughts: Bryce and Ryan expect Milroe’s legs and Horton’s returns to shine. Catch the HawksZone Rundown and roar, 12s!

Watch the full video below!

Video​


Follow HawksZone Rundown hosts on Twitter (X)!​


Bryce Coutts: @brycecoutts_HZR

Ryan MacMillan: @RMac1090

Subscribe to the HawksZone Rundown podcast!​

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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seahawks...at-to-watch-for-preseason-opener-nfl-analysis
 
Seahawks bring back player they just waived

Seahawks helmet


When the NFL preseason rolls around, roster movement is plentiful, and it’s not uncommon to see players waived and re-signed just days apart. That holds true for Seattle Seahawks linebacker/defensive end Seth Coleman, who’s back almost as quickly as he left.

Seattle announced on Wednesday that Coleman, waived on Monday, has re-signed with the team after clearing waivers. Montorie Foster Jr, who injured his hamstring on Friday, was waived/injured to make room for Coleman’s return. If Foster clears waivers then he’ll be placed on injured reserve. Field Gulls attended that practice and noted that he grabbed his hamstring after a 1-on-1 rep, then spent the rest of practice with a wrap around his left leg.

It should be noted that Mike Morris is dealing with a “lower-body injury” according to Mike Macdonald, so the Seahawks may be looking to just have a healthy player on the roster to absorb snaps in case Morris can’t play. Coleman is an undrafted rookie out of Illinois, where he was teammates with Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon. Coleman recorded 15.5 sacks over six seasons with the Fighting Illini.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...oleman-waive-injured-montorie-foster-nfl-news
 
Post-Snap Reads 8/8: Seahawks tie Raiders in preseason opener

John Schneider and Pete Carroll.


Happy Friday, Seattle Seahawks fans! How did you like that for a preseason opener? The Seahawks’ youngsters starred throughout the first half and we even had some quintessential late game drama involving Seattle and Pete Carroll, only this time Pete was on the opposition sideline. A 23-23 tie with the Las Vegas Raiders was maybe an appropriate outcome for an unusually memorable night for a preseason game.

And FYI, Terrance will be handling the links again starting next week.

Seattle Seahawks News​


Instant Analysis: Seahawks Start Preseason Fast Behind Rookies, Settle For 23-23 Tie vs. Raiders — Emerald City Spectrum (Paywall)
While the Seahawks nearly coughed up their first preseason game, strong starts by their heralded rookie class helped the team build a 13-point halftime lead in an eventful exhibition opener at Lumen Field.

2025 Preseason Week 1 Rapid Reactions: Seahawks’ Tie With The Raiders In Preseason Debut – Seahawks.com
Key Takeaways From The Seahawks’ 23-23 Tie In Their Preseason Opener

Marshawn Lynch throws elbow to protect camera from Seahawks RB George Holani in debut as photographer – Yahoo Sports
This isn’t the first time Marshawn Lynch has established his presence during a Seahawks game.

Seahawks studs & duds from NFL preseason debut against the Raiders – Seahawks on SI
Sorting out who had a strong game for Seattle and who did not in their first preseason game of 2025.

Seahawks-Raiders: In your words – Seaside Joe
What did you see on Thursday night?

Seahawks block field goal to force tie with Pete Carroll-led Raiders | The Seattle Times (paywall)
You wouldn’t have expected anything less from a Pete Carroll-coached team.

Pete Carroll crashes John Schneider’s pregame interview – Seattle Sports
Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider’s radio hit on 710 AM Seattle Sports featured a surprise guest that not even Schneider knew was dropping by.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...-8-8-seahawks-tie-raiders-in-preseason-opener
 
Geno Smith flips off heckling Seahawks fan

Geno Smith and two birds on his hand.


(Note: If obscene gestures make you uncomfortable, you might as well leave this article.)

Reception for former Seattle Seahawks starting quarterback Geno Smith on Thursday night was anywhere from muted to positive. The current Las Vegas Raiders signal-caller played the opening series of the game before checking out for the rest of the evening’s 23-23 tie.

The Russell Wilson boo-fest from 2022 this was not, but we did have one incident between Smith and one apparently notorious Seahawks fan.

As Smith led the Raiders out of the visiting tunnel, Getty Images photographer Steph Chambers captured the moment Geno flipped both middle fingers toward a fan.

gettyimages-2229026583.jpg

If you want some more context, check out the second photo to see who those birds are directed toward.

gettyimages-2229028919.jpg

What might have prompted Smith to go for the double flip? Maybe this is a hint. We don’t know if there were any accompanying words exchanged.

genosign.png

The sign the fan in question is holding says “Bigger bust: Geno or JaMarcus Russell?” which is just utterly provocative and stupid. But he had a sequel after the game as Geno signed autographs for Raiders and Seahawks fans.

Raiders QB Geno Smith signs autographs for Seahawks fans and Raiders Nation.

🎥: @MikeDixon_VST #RaiderNation | #Seahawks pic.twitter.com/GZI9ZNx77w

— Vegas Sports Today (@VegasSportsTD) August 8, 2025
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“Did I hurt Geno the Lil’ Lady’s feelings?” the sign read.

I won’t pretend I know this fan but I know others who do, and the responses suggest that he’s just a troll of the highest order.

Everyone knows exactly who Geno is flipping the bird to and it's 100 percent deserved. https://t.co/MsulB9SRH5

— Curtis Crabtree (@Curtis_Crabtree) August 8, 2025
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I hope it's real bc the Tunnel Dude is a nasty piece of work.

— MommyUnit of Beach Therapy (@mommyunit.bsky.social) 2025-08-08T15:47:11.442Z
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By the way, Maxx Crosby (who sported a Sonics jersey on his way into the stadium!) also joined in on the act.

pic.twitter.com/Buu5AkOBHk

— PEP (@pahrduve) August 8, 2025
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It’s possible both Crosby and Smith get fined for this behavior, but I doubt they’re losing sleep given their respective salaries.

Could Smith have shown restraint and ignored this fan? Sure. But that would’ve been boring and then I wouldn’t get to write this up. I laughed. I’m sure this comments section will be extremely normal about this. Besides, as Seahawks fans we are hugely accustomed to middle finger incidents, but usually they’re wearing a Seahawks uniform and they’re doing it to the coaching staff…

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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...smith-flips-off-heckling-seattle-seahawks-fan
 
Klint Kubiak only needed one half to show how different the Seahawks offense will be in 2025

Drew Lock against the Raiders.


If you watched just the first half of the Seattle Seahawks’ preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders, there was a marked difference in how Klint Kubiak’s offense looked compared to the lone season under Ryan Grubb. I’m not talking about performance, efficiency, or run-pass splits, but style.

More specifically, this style.

Las-Vegas-Raiders-vs-Seattle-Seahawks-Game-Highlights-2025-Preseason-Week-1-YouTube-08-09-2025_10_46_AM.png

That almost looked like a trick play last season.

When Drew Lock was in the game, the Seahawks ran 26 plays from under center and just 14 from shotgun. No NFL offense dares run UC at a 65% clip so we are not going to be witnessing that type of split in the regular season, but it hammers home the point that we’ll be seeing a vastly different offense in 2025.

NFL Pro has Geno Smith listed as having thrown 8 non-play action passes from under center all last season under Ryan Grubb. I reviewed them and it's really 6.

By my quick count, Klint Kubiak had Drew Lock throw 7 straight dropback passes from UC against the Raiders last night.

— Mookie Alexander (@mookiealexander) August 8, 2025
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Kubiak did, however, use Jalen Milroe out of shotgun almost exclusively through the first couple of series before spamming UC looks on Milroe’s touchdown drive.

How Klint Kubiak compares to Ryan Grubb​


This is not to beat up on Grubb’s OC abilities as much as highlight a key difference between him and Kubiak. Last year, the Seahawks were tied for 7th in shotgun rate with Grubb, who was a shotgun-heavy offensive coordinator with Washington and Fresno State in the college ranks. Seattle’s shotgun usage went up 10 percentage points from the final year under Shane Waldron to the Grubb season. In Kubiak’s two seasons as a play-caller with the 2021 Minnesota Vikings and 2024 New Orleans Saints, his offenses ranked 31st and 27th respectively in shotgun rate (per FTN Fantasy).

It shouldn’t be surprising that Kubiak operates this way. Klint is the son of longtime offensive coordinator and Super Bowl champion head coach Gary Kubiak, who was a former player and eventual coaching assistant under Mike Shanahan. The Shanahan coaching tree includes the San Francisco 49ers’ Kyle Shanahan and the Los Angeles Rams’ Sean McVay, two tormentors of Seahawks defenses for years. Neither man runs an exact replica of the late 1990s Denver Broncos offenses, but there are enough familiar concepts that can be directly tied to Mike. The 49ers and Rams have been below the league average in shotgun rate 100 percent of the time since Shanahan and McVay were hired in 2017.

While preseason is hardly the whole playbook and play-calling for backups isn’t going to be identical for the starters (or even backups who play in the regular season), we can glean some valuable information off of certain tendencies.

For context, I’ve pulled up the gamebook data from Grubb’s preseason debut against the Los Angeles Chargers. Including plays with penalties, Grubb called a whopping 35 shotgun plays to just 8 under center just in the first half. One of those UC plays was a kneeldown so it’s essentially an 83% shotgun rate, which almost identically mirrored what he’d do with the first-team in the regular season.

In Geno Smith’s only series of that preseason, four of the five plays came out of shotgun and Seattle didn’t run the ball one time. As small as the sample size was, this was a generally accurate preview of what was to come in the regular season.

Again, not “better” than the Grubb offense (although that’s the expectation), but different. It’s even different from the Waldron offenses, which were generally middle-of-the-pack in shotgun rate and consistently above the 49ers and Rams in all three seasons he was Seahawks OC. Sam Darnold should also be comfortable in this situation, having had his career year in a Minnesota Vikings offense that ranked 31st in shotgun rate.

The extent to which Seattle runs the ball more and utilizes play-action passing remains to be seen, but the most drastic difference will undoubtedly be the heavy reduction in shotgun from the Grubb offense. Don’t be surprised if the Seahawks find themselves at or close to the bottom of the NFL in this statistic in 2025.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...fferent-seattle-seahawks-offense-will-be-2025
 
All-22 Film Room: Reviewing the Seahawks rookies versus the Raiders

Jalen Milroe, Seahawks QB.


The Seattle Seahawks are finally back on the field! After a long wait, we can see the additions the team made during the offseason (although most of the starters didn’t play). This article focuses on analyzing the rookies’ performance in the draw against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Grey Zabel (LG)​


I don’t want to get carried away, it’s only preseason, but it was a great debut for Zabel. There are still technical details to improve, but I only saw two poor snaps from him (one pass block and one run block). On the other snaps, he was dominant, including the fourth-best run block grade with a 79 and no pressure surrendered or penalties committed.

Grey Zabel, LG, #76

The hand placement could be better, but he throws the defender to the ground. pic.twitter.com/tIfMD58NH8

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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Zabel’s hands are a little higher than ideal, but he remains calm and finishes the play with the defender on the ground.

Grey Zabel, LG, #76

Great double-team but Zabel is not able to reach the LB. pic.twitter.com/cuFafKD0bU

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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This was the bad snap I mentioned earlier. He does a great job double-teaming Josh Jones (who had a great game at LT), but he can’t get to the LB at the second level, who ends up tackling the RB.

Grey Zabel, LG, #76

Amazing reach block + pancake.

PS:. Bradford, as usual, missing his assignment pic.twitter.com/iqxwUBqIJt

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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Reach block is tough to execute. Zabel reaches the defender and got the pancake. Dominating!

PS: Anthony Bradford can’t be this team’s starter. If he’s the best option we have, the team urgently needs to look for ways to improve on the market.

Grey Zabel, LG, #76

Awesome snap. Against a starter keeps the defender away from his QB and remains solid against counter moves. pic.twitter.com/k7q0K6gD1P

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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Good footwork and he is able to stay between the defender and the QB.

Nick Emmanwori (DB)​


Note that I didn’t classify him as a safety. None of his snaps came in this alignment; they all came as nickel. This gives Macdonald the ability to run a variety of blitzes and boosts the running game. The big issue is Emmanwori’s (poor) change of direction work covering the middle of the field.

Nick Emmanwori lost one step/hesitates and this is the difference between the pressure and the sack. pic.twitter.com/BkQO9LrLI2

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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He’s an athletic beast. Still, timing is crucial when blitzing. It’s not a great mistake, but the millisecond he loses on the snap is the difference between hitting Geno Smith and not.

Nick Emmanwori TFL pic.twitter.com/8jinuu4z1D

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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Blitzed again, he correctly checks the QB and quickly adjusts to go after the RB for the TFL.

Nick Emmanwori late to react in Off coverage. pic.twitter.com/kysg7mSzhC

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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It’s this type of play that will give Macdonald a hard time refining Emmanwori. He has trouble changing directions, and this is most evident in off coverage. Playing against more agile slot receivers can lead to significant gains for opponents.

Elijah Arroyo (TE)​


He was the player I was most excited to watch. He was clearly the star of practice. Even playing with both the starters and the reserves, he only managed two receptions and struggled to block.

Elijah Arroyo blocking… pic.twitter.com/KwdEPDsgEU

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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It’s not ideal to have your TE blocking the edge, but Arroyo doesn’t create any resistance for the opponent, making the tackle with ease.

Jalen Milroe (QB)​


There’s a lot of expectation for Milroe’s game, but I think it was a good debut. It’s far from spectacular, and it shows he still needs refinement in his game processing and his arm usage, as evidenced by the pass he missed to Tyrone Broden on the final drive. Broden did need to do a better job on the play (this explains why someone as tall and fast as him is only a UDFA).

Jalen Milroe best pass pic.twitter.com/Hd5KmyZZOg

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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This was Milroe’s best pass of the night. The QB makes a quick read and sends a laser through three defenders. This gives hope.

Jalen Milroe feels the pressure and run. pic.twitter.com/3EvFcVJBlE

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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Milroe’s final year at Alabama saw him force a lot of pressure, and it significantly impacted his performance and stats. Clearly, he wanted to be conservative in this game. He tried not to hold the ball, not to force passes, and if there were no windows, he tried to use his legs. On this play, he feels the pressure coming from the right side of the pocket, advances, and gains yards with his legs. The cut he makes in the 1v1 against the defender is basically a Madden move.

Jalen Milroe is an amazing runner pic.twitter.com/XqpMRWmzE3

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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I really hope the Seahawks capitalize on his athletic potential. Milroe is not only fast and makes good cuts, he also reads the field well. Notice how he “helps” Marshall Lang (who had an excellent game) in his blocking.

I saw some people criticizing Jalen Milroe on this play. He didn't have a clear or easy first down, and the LB had a good angle to get the tackle first. Plus, it was a poor call by Klint Kubiak. pic.twitter.com/tjSOdVNaOb

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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I saw a lot of tweets (are they still called that?) criticizing Milroe’s decision. I completely disagree with that stance. Could he have done better? Yes. But he’s far from the main villain of the play.

The call is poor. Why put him in shotgun? On fourth-and-1, you take away the threat of the sneak. The play is a rollout to the right where, in a tight space, there are only two routes (with a third arriving late from the other side of the field). I don’t think Milroe would have gotten the first down with his legs, since the LB was so well positioned. Milroe could have broken the tackle, but it wasn’t guaranteed. He attempted the pass to Lang, who couldn’t adjust.

Milroe’s work could have been better, but the poor call was much more crucial to the failure.

Tory Horton (WR)​


I’m really rooting for Tory Horton to take over as WR3 from Marquez Valdes-Scantling. He’s been getting snaps with the starting lineup lately, and based on his performance this game, that should continue. In addition to his pass-catching performance, he was the Seahawks’ best option at kick return, something the Seahawks struggled with in this game.

Great read from Drew Lock and Tory Horton. pic.twitter.com/wsLiczfiwB

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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The RB’s movement indicates zone coverage. This means Horton would have a LB in his zone, defending with inside leverage. Horton waits to confirm this read, runs a stick route, stopping at the right point and location. He then gains additional yards with a good spin move and scores.

Tory Horton showing phisicality at the top of route, not usual in CSU. pic.twitter.com/w7Ex5doUTF

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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One of the points of attention in Horton’s report was his physicality, given his leaner frame. He physically challenges the tackle and achieves separation.

PS: A DPI was called for this play, and I completely disagree.

Bad throw from Drew Lock but Tory Horton drifts a little. pic.twitter.com/pAyh1hJwrk

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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I’m not here to defend Drew Lock, but to show that Horton has room for improvement. At times, it was clear he wasn’t reading the defense the same way the QB was. With the safety covering deep, he needed to adjust his route to a sharper cut, such as a deep out. Lock waited for this route adjustment, and the interception happened.

Tory Horton could adjust his route here. pic.twitter.com/MnA1rENoK2

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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Again, he could adjust. The Raiders were in Cover 3 with the cornerback holding the advantage deep downfield. He needed to adjust for a comeback or out. This isn’t a serious mistake, but it’s something he can improve on and will help his quarterback.

Robbie Ouzts (FB)​


Seattle even managed to impress with its fullback. Ouzts caught two targets (on the incomplete pass, his route could have been much better). Where he shined was in blocking in the running game, where it was clear that he is the team’s starting FB, without competition from Brady Russell.

Amazing block in this Power Run pic.twitter.com/sxlBBgGhEg

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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The Seahawks call what appears to be a Power Run and Ouzts’ block is what allows George Holani to get 1v1 against the CB, resulting in a TD.

Great block on Maxx Crosby.

PS: Josh Jones misses the block in second level. This play only happens due Eric Saubert amazing block. pic.twitter.com/tZ1J3PVXf4

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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The cornerback gets a good block against one of the league’s best defenders. However, this play only happened thanks to great work by Eric Saubert, who had a surprisingly good game. Josh Jones lost his block at the second level, and the TE ended up sealing the edge.

Bryce Cabeldue (LG)​


If you read my draft report or the full analysis of Cabeldue’s pick, you know I had much higher expectations for him than just being in the third OL group. I hope he can grow and make it into the top 53.

He was third in pass-block grade according to PFF with an 80.7 (behind only Jalen Sundell and Mike Jerrell). Cabeldue only received a 53.4 run-block grade, a point I completely disagree with.

Bryce Cabeldue, LG, #77

Natural in open space. pic.twitter.com/QI4lnTGI5w

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 9, 2025
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The Seahawks put Michael Jerrell and Cabeldue in the open field. What Cabeldue executes is essentially a reach block, a technique he masters. He cuts through the defender and creates a gap for the run.

Bryce Cabeldue, LG, #77

Puller pic.twitter.com/htIDwrJ6M0

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 9, 2025
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Cabeldue executes a long trap, pulling the opposite edge. He has the speed and strength to create the gap.

Damien Martinez (RB)​


It wasn’t a good day for Martinez. Despite being a seventh-round pick, I saw a lot of potential in him. I didn’t read anything positive about him in camp, and what we saw in the game didn’t help much.

Yes, I think the Seahawks didn’t use him to his best advantage. He was given 11 passing snaps and only 7 rushing snaps. Being a third-down RB has always been a problem for him. Either the team can’t see what’s obvious, or this is a way for the team to find a way for him to be on the field, since he hasn’t been playing well.

Damien Martinez returning (or trying) a kick pic.twitter.com/6uZO73eJnq

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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I don’t think he’s a good fit for a returner.

Damien Martinez bad pass pro pic.twitter.com/o7dLmVD4CI

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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It seems like he’s running to the wrong side of the play-action, first. Then, he can’t get himself into a good angle to protect the QB from Jamal Adams. Note that it’s not a strength or effort issue, but rather a serious technical issue, and it seems the former Miami RB hasn’t improved at all in that regard.

Mason Richman (RT/RG)​

Mason Richman misses the block that results in the FG blocked pic.twitter.com/W91jVpkRno

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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He had a better game than I expected (maybe because I didn’t expect much from him). He played both RT and RG, and that versatility will be important for him. He got some good blocks in the running game, but he gave in to the pressure that resulted in the blocked FG.

Best of UDFAs​

Connor O'Toole violent hands pic.twitter.com/TBPFkVIrOD

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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Connor O’Toole led the Seahawks in pressure (6) and had the only sack. His hands are strong and violent to disengage and sack the QB.

Connor O'Toole used in stunt pic.twitter.com/iNS9RzoFIe

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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His speed is a menace. The Seahawks used him in the stunt and he got the hit.

Jacardia Wright's great vision pic.twitter.com/KUQVLlcSCi

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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We don’t know if the Seahawks will take three or four RBs to the final 53. But Wright, who received praise during camp, stood out significantly, putting even more pressure on Damien Martinez. In the play above, he clearly sees the gap opened by Mason Richman and makes the cut to gain yards.

Jared Ivey pressure pic.twitter.com/2BfHtJEHNl

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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Another standout UDFA. Ivey lined up in different spots and was able to impact both the run and pass rush. On this play, he threatens the outside guard, quickly changes direction to attack inside, pressuring the QB, and even bringing down the RB along the way.

Final Notes​

Amazing call from Mike Macdonald.

+ 2 drop in coverage
+ 2 blitzers
+ Trap Coverage
+ Great play from Nehemiah Pritchett pic.twitter.com/AtLwizOYWL

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 9, 2025
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Notice how the QB adjusts to the left side of the OL. However, two players drop into coverage and two blitzes come from the right side, effectively putting pressure on the QB.

In the coverage, we have trap coverage (Cover 6). The QB believes the CB will cover the backfield, but he’s the flat defender. Great play by Pritchett.

I was watching the game again to review the rookies. But… Abe Lucas is a monster! pic.twitter.com/DS7mygglp5

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 9, 2025
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As I said before, my goal was review the rookies. However is impossible not to be excited about Abe Lucas here. I’ve always been a fan of his game and hope he finally gets healthy. He just looks like a tractor taking the defender several yards down the field.

D'Eryk Jackson lost pic.twitter.com/H5BcLpgsL5

— Alexandre Castro (@alexcastrofilho) August 10, 2025
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Preseason isn’t a time to get excited or despair. However, this game showed that the cornerback group is very weak and lacking depth. Drake Thomas still made some good plays, but the rest of the group performed poorly, both in the passing game and the running game. In the play above, UDFA LB D’Eryk Jackson blows the coverage, leaving the tight end free. It’s worth noting that Tyrice Knight is out with an unspecified medical issue, per Mike Macdonald, but the hope is he’ll be ready before the season begins.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...ks-rookies-versus-raiders-zabel-horton-milroe
 
Sam Darnold, Geno Smith ranked next to each other in ‘QB Tiers’

Geno Smith and Sam Darnold.


Imagine telling someone in 2021 that Sam Darnold and Geno Smith, written off as draft busts, would eventually be considered legitimate NFL starters. That’s what we’re seeing in The Athletic’s ‘QB Tiers’ survey for 2025.

Mike Sando assembled a panel of 50 NFL coaches and executives (all anonymous, of course) and asked them to place starting quarterbacks by Tiers, with 1 being the MVP-level highest and 5 being a backup-level player. If your name is Kenny Pickett, you have Tier 5 exclusivity this year. The Tier 1 group consists of Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and (for the first time, amazingly) Lamar Jackson.

Where do the Seattle Seahawks’ current and previous starting quarterbacks fall? Coincidentally, right next to each other in Tier 3, which is defined as, “a legitimate starter but needs a heavier running game and/or defensive component to win. A lower-volume dropback passing offense suits him best.”

(A Tier 2 quarterback, by the way, “can carry his team sometimes but not as consistently. He can handle pure-passing situations in doses and/or possesses other dimensions that are special enough to elevate him above Tier 3. He has a hole or two in his game.”)

For Darnold, he skyrocketed up to 20th (tied with Bo Nix) after being 29th last season. The blockquoted piece compares Darnold to Geno (logically), and this is what this voter said about the two.

“Sam, when you put the pieces around him, has as higher ceiling,” another voter said. “This is wild to say, but Geno is maybe better if your team is bad. Sam is better if your team is good.”

Smith could be the higher-variance player, by this way of thinking.

“Geno can look great, and you can win a game you should not win, but you are also going to lose two or three against teams that are the same as you because he throws a pick in the end zone, plays blind, doesn’t see it,” the voter added. “Sam, when the team is bad, you are going to feel like, f—, this guy is limited, and we cannot overcome it. But when your team is good, you are going to operate really well.”
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Geno Smith effectively didn’t move much, improving one spot up to 19th. Opinion on Smith is divided among fans and media alike, but what about coaches? Well…

“I think he’s a 2 because when the game is on the line, he can make the throws to win,” a head coach said. “He stands in there. Guys that can stand in there, take hits when the game is on the line, whether it’s third down or two-minute, those guys are legit.”

This coach placed Smith among the NFL’s top 10 or 15 in two-minute proficiency, lauding him for his play over the years in shootouts against Detroit and Dallas.

Others see Smith as a quarterback whose team will always be looking to upgrade, with one defensive coordinator suggesting Smith doesn’t solve post-snap coverage rotations quickly enough, leading to turnovers and negative plays.

“He is a game manager who is going to turn the ball over and can’t carry it,” a coach with multiple games against Smith said. “Even when the team is good, you are always going to feel like we don’t quite have the guy.”
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Smith is only marginally ahead of Nix in the AFC West tier, which is perfectly reasonable given Mahomes and Justin Herbert are in the same division, whereas Darnold’s super 2024 wasn’t enough for him to immediately overtake either Kyler Murray (the top Tier 3 QB) or Brock Purdy (who’s the last Tier 2 QB). Matthew Stafford is fifth but I think the greater worry is whether or not his back can heal.

In case you’re wondering, Russell Wilson is 26th and now in the Tier 4 world of “an unproven player (not enough information for voters to classify) or a veteran who ideally would not start all 17 games.”
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...ith-seahawks-ranked-the-athletic-nfl-qb-tiers
 
Mike Macdonald: No rotations planned for Seahawks o-line

gettyimages-2176407319.jpg


As the offensive line of the Seattle Seahawks struggled during the 2024 season, the team spent the first half of the season using a rotation at right guard.

Specifically, 2024 third round pick Christian Haynes and 2023 fourth-round selection Anthony Bradford rotating at the spot, with Bradford earning the majority of the playing time. This situation led to significant debates among fans, as many hoped that Haynes would surpass Bradford as the starter as the season went along.

However, what wound up happening is that after Bradford went down with a season ending injury against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 12, sixth-rounder Sataoa Laumea took over as the starter, with Haynes earning just three garbage-time offensive snaps over the remainder of the season.

Now, with debate continuing to rage about the state of the right guard spot ahead of the 2025 season, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald shared Monday that when the team settles on a starting five for the offensive line, that will be it and there aren’t any rotations planned.

Macdonald said they will name a starting offensive line and don’t plan to rotate once they get into the season. “I think we’re narrowing in on what we want to do.”

1OL recently has been…

LT: Cross
LG: Zabel
C: Sundell (Oluwatimi out)
RG: Bradford
RT: Lucas

— Curtis Crabtree (@Curtis_Crabtree) August 11, 2025
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Now, of course, that means that attention turns to the players who have been getting the practice reps with the first team, and whether or not they will hold onto those roles with the regular season now less than four weeks away.

Of the five starting spots, Charles Cross, Grey Zabel and Abe Lucas appear to have three of them on lockdown. The central debate about the line during much of the offseason was largely focused on right guard, but that spot appears to be falling to Bradford for the third straight season under a third offensive coaching staff.

All of that appears to combine to leave just center up for discussion at this point, with the key question being how long Olu Oluwatimi’s back will keep him out, and whether it will be long enough that he Wally Pipps himself out of the presumed starting role.

And now it’s on to Preseason Week 2 and the Kansas City Chiefs.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...attle-seahawks-offensive-line-bradford-haynes
 
Pre-Snap Reads 8/12: New components of Seahawks offense making an impression

gettyimages-2228244638.jpg


The 2025 Seattle Seahawks pre-season marches on and our team diligently prepares for another exhibition game. Both young and fringe players will get an opportunity to find a place on the roster, while others work for inclusion on the Practice Squad, or to simply put good reps on tape.

After last week’s game, how are we feeling about the roster? Anyone making their way deep into your hearts and minds? Who could you live without? Who can you not live without? Our team looks exciting so far, rebranded and adjusted for a second season in the Macdonald regime. Here’s to more interesting developments and improved play from our talented roster.

Go ‘Hawks.

I asked AI to scout every WR taken before Tory Horton — Here’s the Camp Buzz – Seaside Joe
If Tory Horton deserves to start, the Seahawks can’t hold him back

The Seahawks’ Plan For Kenneth Walker III & Other Things We Learned From Mike Macdonald’s Monday Press Conference – Seahawks.com
News and notes from Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald’s Monday presser.

Bump: A Seahawks defender who helped himself in preseason opener – Seattle Sports
The Seattle Seahawks’ 2024 draft class saw plenty of action during their first year in the league.

Salk: Seahawks rookie fullback Robbie Ouzts ‘jumped off the page’ – Seattle Sports
In last Thursday night’s preseason opener, it didn’t take long for the Seattle Seahawks to showcase their newfound emphasis on the ground game.

Seahawks’ George Holani seems to have edge over Damien Martinez at camp – The Seattle Times
NFL coaches consistently preach to players that a big part of getting ahead is being prepared when an opportunity arises.

Halfway through Seahawks preseason, how’s Sam Darnold? And: A Kenneth Walker plan – The News Tribune
Mike Macdonald was again trying to do what the defensive wizard had been doing consistently a couple weeks ago.

Could the Seahawks strike a deal for another linebacker? – Seahawks Draft Blog
It’s pretty clear Seattle’s linebacker depth is a concern at the moment. Mystery surrounds Tyrice Knight’s knee injury. Ernest Jones had knee surgery this off-season and recently missed camp time due to the passing of his father.

Seahawks stock report: ‘Baller’ rookie WR Tory Horton leads 5 training camp standouts – The Athletic
It is common for rookies to receive praise from veterans in their position group or on their side of the ball, as Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tory Horton has.

Analysis: Examining 4 Seahawks Defensive Roster Bubble Battles Midway Through Preseason – Emerald City Spectrum
From the edge rush group to reserve safeties, the Seahawks still have several battles for roster spots that remain undecided on the defensive side of the ball. Who holds the edge in four ongoing competitions?

Sam Darnold showing noticeable improvement – ESPN.com
The Seahawks’ head coach loves to see it, even if the defensive coordinator in him does not.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...ents-of-seahawks-offense-making-an-impression
 
The Open Field: What are your early Seahawks preseason takeaways?

Seahawks NT Brandon Pili.


The Seattle Seahawks are done with public training camp practices as of Tuesday. I suspect many fans are more focused on the remaining two preseason games against the Kansas City Chiefs and Green Bay Packers.

You’ve read the stories, you’ve read our on-site accounts and seen our videos, and some of you have even made it out to either Renton or Lumen Field to see the Seahawks in action over the past few weeks. For today’s discussion, we want to know what your top takeaways are from training camp and the first preseason game. This was our lead topic on the latest HawksZone Rundown podcast with myself, Bryce Coutts, and Ryan MacMillan.

While it’s low-hanging fruit to focus on the offensive line, more specifically Christian Haynes seemingly unable to win a starting job on the offensive line/usurp Anthony Bradford as the starting right guard, my takeaways were more based on the offense as a whole. The heavy usage of under center formations by Klint Kubiak is almost the polar opposite of Ryan Grubb’s offense, such that there is zero chance the Seahawks of 2025 have a scheme that comes close to resembling last year’s. Robbie Ouzts’ impressive start to camp and preseason has me buzzing about having a fullback involved in the offense again.

I am not guaranteeing the Seahawks offense will be better this year, but it’s going to be different and it should look better. More play-action, more rollouts, more easy buttons to press for the quarterback, more zone blocking in the run game, and obviously Jalen Milroe will be incorporated into the offense to some degree. Damn near every NFL team looks amazing playing against itself and against backups in training camp, preseason, and scrimmages, but from what I saw at practice and against the Raiders, the Seahawks have quickly established their identity on the offensive side of the ball.

Another takeaway is the rise of Tory Horton, whom I believe will be the team’s second-leading wide receiver within the next two seasons. There’s still a lot more to figure out throughout preseason and how he does in the regular season, but I feel better about the WR situation knowing he’s performed well up to this point. His preseason debut was all the more reason to be excited that the Seahawks found themselves their own fifth-round gem, much in the way the Los Angeles Rams did with Puka Nacua.

Lastly, Brandon Pili and Quinton Bohanna have me wondering if Johnathan Hankins even makes the roster as a nose tackle. Pili and Bohanna have been consistently showing promise throughout camp and it continued into the Raiders game.

What are your camp takeaways? Chat away in the comments, plus you can listen to the rest of the podcast below.

Video​

Follow HawksZone Rundown hosts on Twitter (X)!​


Bryce Coutts: @brycecoutts_HZR

Ryan MacMillan: @RMac1090

Subscribe to the HawksZone Rundown podcast!​


Head to the comments section to join the conversation! Don’t be shy! You can sign up for a commenting account below and we have full-time moderators and Alaric10000 to enforce the Community Guidelines.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...op-takeaways-seahawks-preseason-training-camp
 
Seahawks to play Sam Darnold, other starters against Chiefs

Sam Darnold and Cooper Kupp.


Last week when the Seattle Seahawks took on the Las Vegas Raiders in the first week of the preseason, nearly all the starters rested. Entering Week 2 of the preseason, that will change. When head coach Mike Macdonald was asked if starters will play this Friday against the Kansas City Chiefs, Macdonald stated, “There might be a couple of guys that will vary based on whether they get out there or not. We’re still working through it right now, but, our guys are going to start the game out. We’ll see how long it goes.”

Macdonald further mentioned that Sam Darnold and the offense as a whole will get playing time against Kansas City, indicating that even though it’s not a necessity, “it’s the best thing for us.”

Notably, in last week’s tie versus the Raiders, there were only a few non-rookie starters/key contributors who saw playing time: Abe Lucas, Anthony Bradford, and Josh Jobe, of whom Bradford and Jobe are in camp battles at their respective positions.

Listening to what coach Macdonald had to say, the dozens of other starters, notably Sam Darnold and the rest of the offense, seem to be in store for at least one or two drives on Friday night. This is not atypical for preseason Week 2 in today’s NFL. The Chiefs, however, are breaking from their usual pattern under Andy Reid and are likely to rest starters (including Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce) against the Seahawks.

With that, if there is any tell as to what the 2025 Seahawks may look like this season, this Friday night against the Chiefs may be the closest Seahawks’ fans will get until the regular season.
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Source: https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-...wks-sam-darnold-other-starters-play-vs-chiefs
 
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