First Day of Camp Highlights
The Seattle Seahawks commenced their training camp on Saturday at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center, drawing a significant crowd of fans. Head coach Mike Macdonald described the opening day as a “great first day,” noting the team’s high spirits and the electric atmosphere created by the supporters. Macdonald emphasized that while some execution issues are expected early on, the team’s effort and energy were paramount after a long break.
During the practice, Jaxon Smith-Njigba garnered considerable attention. As players emerged from the locker room, Smith-Njigba received a strong reaction from fans, particularly a group of children who formed a tunnel for the players. Later, a leaping sideline catch by Smith-Njigba from Sam Darnold drew one of the loudest cheers of the day. After practice, he was again met with cheers while signing autographs for fans.
Smith-Njigba’s elevated status follows a successful 2025 season where he was named AP Offensive Player of the Year and became a Super Bowl champion. Despite a previously low-key demeanor, his performance has solidified his position as a prominent player.
Running Backs and Defensive Standouts
The running back position is a key area of focus for the Seahawks this camp. With last year’s starter, Kenneth Walker III, and Zach Charbonnet currently on the physically unable to perform list, the group features new additions. First-round pick Jadarian Price and free-agent signing Emanuel Wilson are competing alongside George Holani.
Jadarian Price, a rookie and first-round selection, made an impression on his first day, including a notable catch and run down the sideline. He also executed a run that began inside before he bounced it outside with a jump cut for a significant gain, eliciting a strong fan reaction. Emanuel Wilson also broke loose for a long run, and George Holani contributed with several effective runs.
On the defensive side, Devon Witherspoon was notably active. He was seen flying into the backfield, forcing Sam Darnold to throw the ball away. Witherspoon was also among the first to celebrate with Julian Love after the veteran safety made a diving pass breakup. Witherspoon, a 2023 first-round pick, is eligible for a new contract, and the team has expressed interest in a multi-year extension, similar to the one signed by fellow 2023 first-round pick Smith-Njigba. Macdonald expressed confidence in the ongoing negotiation process.
The Seahawks‘ pass rush also showed early strength, with Witherspoon making a blitz that would have been a sack in a game scenario. The pass rush was a significant factor last season, including a six-sack performance in the Super Bowl, and early indications suggest it will continue to be a force.
Returning Players and Future Outlook
Several players who missed parts of the offseason program were back in action. These include receiver Tory Horton, whose rookie season was cut short by a shin injury, and tight end AJ Barner, who underwent two surgeries after the season for injuries played through. Veteran tight end Eric Saubert and tackle Josh Jones also returned after missing time. Macdonald noted that all returning players are currently participating in individual programs as they work towards full participation.
The team’s mindset, as expressed by head coach Mike Macdonald, is to “run it forward” after their Super Bowl victory. Linebacker Ernest Jones conveyed a message to the team that past wins will not contribute to current success, urging them to focus on the present. Jaxon Smith-Njigba echoed this sentiment, describing a “revamp” and new energy within the team, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the future and attacking training camp. There will still be reminders of what the Seahawks accomplished in the weeks and months to come because they’ll start the season by facing the Patriots in a rematch of Super Bowl LXII.
Source: seahawks.com
