The Seattle Seahawks kicked off their preseason with a thrilling 23-23 tie against the Las Vegas Raiders, a game that was much more than a typical exhibition. It marked the highly anticipated return of legendary head coach Pete Carroll to Lumen Field, albeit on the opposing sideline. For the Seahawks, it was the first real look at the team under the new leadership of Head Coach Mike Macdonald and Offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak. The game provided a tantalizing preview of what’s to come, showcasing promising rookie performances, a new offensive philosophy, and the emotional return of familiar faces.
The matchup was steeped in nostalgia and new beginnings. Pete Carroll, the architect of the Seahawks’ only Super Bowl title, returned to the stadium he called home for 14 seasons. His presence brought a palpable energy to the field, with many Seahawks players and staff sharing warm embraces with their former coach. Alongside him was quarterback Geno Smith, who revitalized his career in Seattle and now takes the helm for the Raiders. Their return was a storyline that transcended the game itself, reminding everyone of the franchise’s recent history while a new chapter was being written.
Table of Contents
The Klint Kubiak Offense: A Run-First Philosophy Takes Shape
Under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, the Seahawks’ offense showed flashes of a more balanced, run-heavy approach, a departure from the pass-happy schemes of previous years. The team emphasized running the ball, a strategy that paid dividends throughout the game. Rookie running back George Holani, a former teammate of Raiders’ star rookie Ashton Jeanty at Boise State, was a standout performer. Holani rushed for a game-high 61 yards and a touchdown, including a 24-yard scamper that showcased his speed and vision. His performance was a highlight reel moment, and the Seahawks social media team even took a jab at Jeanty, who struggled against the Seattle defense, a playful dig that added a layer of fun to the preseason rivalry. Holani’s impressive debut is a promising sign for the team’s depth at the running back position and a strong endorsement of the new offensive direction. The game was a coming-out party for Holani, who proved he could be a pivotal part of the team’s plans.
The passing game, while not as flashy, was efficient. Quarterback play was a mixed bag, but the team’s focus on complementary football was evident. They moved the ball methodically and controlled the clock, a stark contrast to past seasons. This new philosophy is aimed at creating a more physical and consistent offense that can sustain drives and keep the defense fresh. The early returns are encouraging, suggesting that Kubiak’s system is already beginning to take hold with the players. The offense as a whole played “good complementary football” according to post-game analysis from the team’s official site, a phrase that speaks to the balanced and disciplined approach they’re trying to establish.
The depth chart at quarterback is a hot topic, with Jalen Milroe making a strong case for himself. The rookie quarterback, who many believe could be the “steal of the draft,” made a promising debut. He showcased his arm talent and mobility, making several key plays with both his arm and his legs. Milroe’s performance was so impressive that some fans are already calling for him to get more playing time, a testament to his potential. Veteran backup Drew Lock also saw action but had a less-than-ideal start, throwing an interception on the team’s first drive. The quarterback battle behind starter Sam Darnold is one to watch throughout the preseason, as Milroe’s rapid ascent could shake up the depth chart sooner than expected.
Rookies Shine in the Spotlight: Newcomers Make an Immediate Impact
Beyond George Holani’s stellar performance, several other Seahawks rookies made a strong first impression. The preseason is a crucial time for young players to prove themselves, and this class of newcomers did not disappoint. Rookie wide receiver Tory Horton, for example, made a significant impact, hauling in a 10-yard touchdown catch. His ability to create separation and make contested catches suggests he could be a key contributor to the offense this season. The coaching staff has been vocal about the high level of competition in training camp, and players like Horton are seizing the opportunity to stand out.
On the defensive side of the ball, the rookies also showed promise. Cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett, after a quiet rookie season last year, was named a player of the game for his performance against the Raiders. His ability to make noise in his debut is a great sign for the team’s secondary depth. The defensive line also saw a number of young players making an impact, getting pressure on the quarterback and stuffing the run. This is particularly encouraging for a defense that is transitioning to a new scheme under Mike Macdonald, who is known for his defensive prowess. The new culture under Macdonald is already “palpable,” with players buying into his philosophy and playing with a renewed energy. The performance of these rookies suggests that the future is bright for the Seahawks defense.
The Return of Old Friends: Carroll and Smith Back in Seattle
One of the most compelling storylines of the preseason opener was the return of former coach Pete Carroll and quarterback Geno Smith to Lumen Field. Carroll, now the head coach of the Raiders, received a warm welcome from the Seattle crowd and his former players. His return was a reminder of the successful era he presided over, which included a Super Bowl victory and numerous playoff appearances. His time in Seattle was marked by a commitment to a specific philosophy, a culture he helped build from the ground up. In a post-game press conference, Carroll reflected on his time in Seattle, stating, “I loved my time in Seattle and loved the fans and the people that we met and dealt with and competed with. But (Thursday’s) a game for us. We’re going to go play ball.”
Geno Smith’s return was also a significant moment. Smith revitalized his career in Seattle, going from a journeyman backup to a Pro Bowl quarterback and the AP Comeback Player of the Year. His time with the Seahawks was a period of personal and professional growth, and he spoke about it with fondness. “It means a lot to me as a place where I called home for six years, was able to have a son there, and I was able to really just kind of turn my career around,” Smith said, according to an AP News report. His words highlighted the deep personal connection he formed with the city and the team. While he is now a Raider, his legacy in Seattle is secure, and his return was a moment of mutual respect and admiration. The game was a unique blend of old and new, with the past and present colliding on the football field.
The emotional reunion and the competitive preseason game provided a compelling narrative. It showed that while the Seahawks are moving on, the impact of people like Pete Carroll and Geno Smith will not be forgotten. The return of these two figures served as a bookend to one era and a starting point for the next. It was a perfect way to usher in the Mike Macdonald era, as it allowed the team to acknowledge its past while looking squarely toward the future.
Training Camp Battles and Roster Changes
The preseason opener wasn’t the only news coming out of the Seahawks camp. The team has been busy with training camp battles and roster moves as they prepare for the regular season. The competition for roster spots has been intense, particularly at certain positions. The wide receiver group, for example, is a position where Mike Macdonald is “looking forward” to the competition. With a mix of established veterans and promising rookies, the battle for the final roster spots is fierce. Another position to watch is the defensive line, where the team has made several roster moves to find the right combination of players.
Recent roster transactions have been a mix of signings and waivers. The Seahawks signed undrafted rookie running back Anthony Tyus, while placing running back Kenny McIntosh on injured reserve. They also added rookie cornerback Keydrain Calligan, waiving defensive tackle Thor Griffith to make room. These moves indicate that the team is still evaluating its talent and looking for the right fit. The team also recently extended President of Football Operations/General Manager John Schneider through 2031, a move that signals stability and a long-term vision for the franchise. This is a significant move that ensures continuity in the front office and allows the team to continue to build for the future with a clear direction. The team’s official website provides a comprehensive list of all news and roster moves, giving fans a detailed look at the team’s daily operations and strategic decisions.
In addition to roster changes, the team is also dealing with some injuries. Outside linebacker Uchenna Nwosu, who had knee surgery in the offseason, is currently on the physically unable to perform list. His recovery will be a key storyline to follow as the season approaches, as he is a vital part of the team’s defensive scheme. These training camp storylines are crucial as they shape the final roster and determine which players will be ready to contribute when the regular season begins. The coaching staff has a lot of decisions to make in the coming weeks, and the preseason games and training camp practices are the primary opportunities for players to make their case.
Looking Ahead: Expectations for the 2025 Season
As the preseason progresses, the focus will shift from individual performances to the team’s overall readiness for the regular season. The Seahawks have high expectations for the 2025 season, and the new coaching staff is tasked with getting the team back to the playoffs. Early observations from training camp and the preseason opener suggest that the team has a solid foundation to build upon. The new offensive and defensive schemes seem to be a good fit for the players, and the rookie class has shown a lot of potential.
The team’s success will depend on a number of factors, including the continued development of the young players, the performance of the new coaching staff, and the health of key veterans. The NFC West is a competitive division, and the Seahawks will need to be at their best to contend for a playoff spot. The team’s fan base, known as the “12s,” is optimistic about the future. They are excited to see what Mike Macdonald’s vision will bring to the franchise. With a new coaching staff and a mix of veteran talent and young players, the Seahawks are a team to watch this season. The preseason game was a crucial first step in this journey, providing valuable insights and a taste of the competitive spirit that defines the team. The tie with the Raiders was a fitting start, as it left fans with a sense of excitement and a multitude of questions that will be answered as the regular season approaches.
The team’s focus on complementary football and the development of their young players bodes well for the future. The new era of Seahawks football is officially underway, and while there are still many questions to be answered, the initial signs are encouraging. The team seems to be embracing the change and is focused on building a winning culture under Mike Macdonald’s leadership. The journey to the Super Bowl is a long one, but the first steps have been taken, and the future looks bright in Seattle.