The Seattle Seahawks began their voluntary workouts last Monday, with a majority of the team making their way back to Virginia Mason Athletic Center—where the team holds their practices. The team’s first day of their offseason workout program consisted of physicals, testing and a team meeting. This day was primarily held to get a good understanding of where the players’ physical levels are and to get a baseline of how in shape they are.
During the offseason, it’s no secret that the Seahawks have made some major coaching changes. They released defensive coordinator Kris Richard, linebackers coach and defensive coach and assistant head coach Michael Barrow, offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell and offensive line coach and assistant head coach Tom Cable. The Seahawks replaced these coaches with offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr and offensive line coach Mike Solari.
Coaching changes weren’t the only changes being made this season, as many big-name players also left the program. Cornerback Richard Sherman was released from the team and joined the San Francisco 49ers. Cornerback Jeremy Lane was released from the team in early March and defensive end Michael Bennett signed with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Tight-end Jimmy Graham signed with the Green Bay Packers, wide receiver Paul Richardson was picked up by the Washington Redskins, and kicker Blair Walsh was dropped from the team after a series of field goals missed during his first season. Rumors are also currently going around regarding the potential trade of safety Earl Thomas to the Dallas Cowboys.
However, there were also some positive changes that were made in the offseason. The Seahawks picked up cornerback Justin Coleman, running back Mike Davis, safety Bradley McDougald, defensive-end Marcus Smith, tight-end Ed Dickson, and defensive tackles Sharmar Stephen and Tom Johnson. The Seahawks also recently signed former Oakland Raider kicker Sebastian Janikowski, who still holds the NFL record for longest field goal at 63-yards, back in 2011.
The Seahawks aren’t the only ones in the NFL that are making big changes and trades to their organizations, as many other NFL teams made various moves. The New England Patriots are the preseason favorites going into the 2018 season, followed by reigning Super Bowl Champions the Philadelphia Eagles. The Seahawks are currently positioned 11th in the preseason power rankings.
The Seahawks kick-off their 2018 season Sunday Sept. 9 where they face off against the Denver Broncos in Colorado. Seattle ended their past season just short of making playoffs for the first time since 2011.
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