Seahawks Begin Training Camp
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 “great,” highlighting the atmosphere created by both the team and its supporters. He noted the high spirits among the players and the collective excitement for the season ahead, emphasizing a focus on taking things “one step at a time.”
Despite some initial miscues and mistakes, which are common on the first day of practice, Macdonald stressed that the primary focus was on effort and energy following a prolonged break. He indicated that while execution would need refinement, the team’s non-negotiable style of play was already being emphasized.
Key Player Performances and Team Dynamics
One of the standout players on Day 1 was wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. As players entered the practice field, a group of children formed a tunnel, and Smith-Njigba’s appearance generated a particularly enthusiastic response from the fans. During practice, he made a leaping sideline grab from a pass by Sam Darnold, which was met with one of the loudest cheers of the day. After practice, Smith-Njigba continued to receive significant attention while signing autographs for fans.
Smith-Njigba’s increased prominence follows a 2025 season where he was named AP Offensive Player of the Year and became a Super Bowl champion. He also became the highest-paid player at his position, solidifying his status as a superstar after two seasons where he shared the spotlight with veteran receivers like DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett.
The running back position is also under scrutiny this camp, especially with the departure of last year’s starter, Kenneth Walker III, and Zach Charbonnet currently on the physically unable to perform list due to an ACL injury sustained in the playoffs. This situation has opened opportunities for new additions, including first-round pick Jadarian Price and free-agent signing Emanuel Wilson, who are competing alongside George Holani.
Price, as a rookie first-round pick, drew considerable attention and delivered impressive plays, including a catch and run down the sideline and an inside run that he converted into a significant gain with an agile jump cut. Wilson also contributed with a long run, and Holani made several notable plays, indicating a competitive environment within the running back group.
Defensive back Devon Witherspoon also made an impact, showcasing his characteristic energy. He was seen flying into the backfield during drills, forcing Sam Darnold to throw the ball away. Witherspoon was also quick to celebrate with teammate Julian Love after the veteran safety made a diving pass breakup. Witherspoon, a 2023 first-round pick, is eligible for a new contract after three seasons, and general manager John Schneider has expressed the team’s interest in signing him to a multi-year extension, similar to the deal given to Smith-Njigba. Despite contract negotiations, Witherspoon has remained fully engaged in all offseason programs and practices.
The team’s pass rush, which was a strong aspect of their performance last season, including a six-sack performance in the Super Bowl, appeared to be in good form on the first day of camp. Witherspoon’s blitz that would have resulted in a sack if not for contact rules, along with other free rushers, suggests the pass rush will continue to be a significant factor in 2026.
Returning Players and Future Outlook
Several players who missed parts of the offseason program were back in action, including 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 he played through. Veteran tight end Eric Saubert and tackle Josh Jones also returned to practice. Macdonald expressed satisfaction with the return of these players, noting their positive spirits as they work through individual programs to return to full participation.
The team’s mindset, as articulated by Macdonald earlier in the offseason, is to “run it forward” after their Super Bowl victory. Linebacker Ernest Jones echoed this sentiment, stating that “those wins last year won’t help you this year.” Smith-Njigba also emphasized moving past previous achievements to focus on the future, describing a “revamp” and new energy within the team. The Seahawks will begin their season by raising a banner before facing the Patriots in a rematch of Super Bowl LXII.
The team is embracing the opportunity to start anew, with players indicating they are ready for the “next thing” and focused on attacking training camp. This collective approach aims to prevent the team from resting on past accomplishments as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 season.
Source: seahawks.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.