Curtis Allen recaps the recent Fan Fest event at Lumen Field, noting that this year’s format featured a more structured scrimmage compared to last year’s extended practice session. The team engaged in a series of drills, including Red Zone situations, providing a valuable glimpse into their preparations for the upcoming season.
The scrimmage allowed starters to showcase their abilities, with notable players like Sam Darnold, Zach Charbonnet, and JSN working cohesively alongside an evolving offensive line. Darnold demonstrated his precision with several impressive throws, outpacing tight coverage from defensive players like Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen. Although the run game faced challenges, Charbonnet shone with intelligent plays that showcased his understanding of the offense.
The offensive line appears to be developing well, with players such as Josh Jones, Abe Lucas, and Mike Jerrell providing strong performances. Despite some pressure from the defensive line, which included Demarcus Lawrence’s assertiveness, the offense showed promise compared to the previous season.
Looking ahead, the run game under the guidance of Klint Kubiak seems poised for improvement. While the focus on balancing the offense has been strong, it’s critical to note that Kubiak’s previous offenses have effectively managed run/pass ratios, implying an adaptable approach that could benefit the team. Moreover, the offense’s ball security has been impressive; last year, both the Saints and Vikings ranked highly in minimizing turnovers, which could be a key asset for the Seahawks this season.
In terms of player updates, Ken Walker is currently resting due to foot soreness, prompting discussions about Zach Charbonnet potentially stepping into a starting role. Additionally, Jalen Milroe showed encouraging signs with a solid performance, avoiding major mistakes while connecting on deep throws.
As training camp progresses, the team has also been exploring their options in the return game with Tory Horton making a strong case for a spot on the roster. The defense, under Mike Macdonald’s new schemes, has displayed some early creativity but awaits the full unveiling of strategies that might further challenge the offense.
Overall, while there’s still room for growth, the Hawks have made significant strides since last season, with a focus on both strengthening the offense and building a versatile defense that could make them a formidable opponent in the upcoming games. The emphasis on teamwork, strategy, and adaptability can lead to a promising season for Seattle fans.