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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
What we're seeing with the Seahawks is reflective of what happens to a football team besieged by injuries and just keeps happening. There is a domino effect and it's imperative that everyone stay realistic.
As coach Mike Holmgren said, this is a long season and let's be realistic about all the players that have been lost on offense, the impact it has had on the defense and watching how they work their way out of their present state.
And that includes not trying to fool anybody about the situation that injuries have created.
"I think the first thing you do is, you must be honest with the team," Holmgren said. "I've always said that. And when we don't play well, or I think we got snookered a little bit in the coaching side of it, I'll say that. I tell them that. They're bright guys. A lot of them have played a lot of football. If I did it any other way, they'd go, 'What's he drinking?' or whatever. That's where you start.
"The guys know the situation. I told them (Monday) I think some of them might be trying too hard to make up for our deficiencies right now. That can happen. You know, we have a way of doing things that has been good for us in the past. If all of a sudden you start changing all those things, it smacks a panic just a little bit."
So the key is not to panic or pointing fingers. Momentum can go both ways.
"It only takes one game for us to get back on track," defensive end Patrick Kerney said. "It's tough, but we all have confidence we can turn this around."
As the ebb and flow of players continues through injuries, the Seahawks made another roster move Tuesday, re-signing seventh round draft choice Justin Forsett from the practice squad to the 53-man roster. To make room for Forsett, they released wide receiver Michael Bumpus. Bumpus will be eligible for the practice squad if he clears waivers.
On to the e-mail of the week:
From: Jeremy
Mike,
It goes without saying that our defense is ranked lower than last year. Do you have any idea why they are struggling? Also do you think some personnel changes are coming? If our defense could get close to there play of last year I think a few more wins will follow quickly.
Jeremy,
At this point of the season, it's hard to fathom much of a change. A lot of it is just mindset, and the defense just has to regain its confidence and swagger going after a variety of offenses. Some of the problem has been playing against bigger teams that have prevented them from getting a consistent pass rush.
Nonetheless, it's going to take a concerted effort from all 11 on defense to turn things around and be the defense they figured to be at the start of the season. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Lawrence
Mike,
I've been watching how the Hawks season is going and I think the wide receiver position is going to need an overhaul. There hasn't been a true deep threat in Seattle since Joey Galloway and hopefully the Hawks can draft a couple of receivers. Don't get me wrong I love the Hawks, someone needs to get them fired up.
Lawrence,
It's just hard to get a handle on the wide receiver situation because this is such an extraordinary situation of injuries. Teams just don't lose six receivers at the same time. At least Bobby Engram is back and presumably Deion Branch will play this week. Along the way they have added Koren Robinson, who looks like he can be a significant contributor with speed.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Matt
Mike,
I was wondering why the same Seahawks defense that did great last year isn't playing at the same level this year. I mean we went from one of the top teams to struggling for a win. Does it have to do with new coaches and losing Shaun Alexander? We had a good thing going.
Matt,
There is a transition with coaches, but Alexander has nothing to do with their success or failure, particularly when you consider how sparingly he played the last couple of seasons because of injuries. The injuries to the team overall have been the primary problem.
Just consider the offense in the opener, having lost six receivers, they didn't have right tackle Sean Locklear, right guard Rob Sims played most of the game with a torn pectoral muscle and center Chris Spencer played after missing most of training camp. There has been a domino effect from the offensive woes that has thrown the defense off balance. If they can just get healthy, things should be dramatically different the second half of the season. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Christopher
Mike,
I just heard that Tony Gonzalez just went on the trading block. Would Seattle be willing to give up a second round pick to get him? I know we have a great find in John Carlson but I think Tony would just make him even better through mentoring. From what I know of Tony G. he is a stand up guy with the right personality for the Hawks. Thanks Mike for taking the time to listen to the fans concerns. I always look forward to your mailbag!
Christopher,
The trade deadline has passed and Gonzalez didn't go anywhere. And it's no surprise. Every time he steps on the field, another NFL record for tight ends is on the verge of being broken. Even so, there are too many other needs to give up something significant at a position where they're thrilled with Carlson. Not only does he have all the athletic qualities to be a superior tight end, he's also very bright and focused.
Everything you said about Gonzalez is true. Getting another tight end just is low on the priority list, although there may be a need for a third one if Will Heller's knee injury proves to be significant. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Emerson
Mike,
It seems to me that we just need to be fired up during the games. More high fives and head slaps on good plays. It just seems that more teams in the NFL are showing more emotion and their teammates seem to be picking up on that energy. Also I think as a team we just need to make a few big plays like a long touchdown run or pass that is over 50 yards or so. Also the defense just needs to make a big play or two to get them fired up. I don't want to panic yet but the line is thin and the season is moving pretty fast. We need to get it going now. Go Hawks!!!!!
Emerson,
Actually, you have it backwards. If the defense started creating more turnovers and big plays, they would start giving each other more high-fives and head slaps. They begin every game all fired up – it was never more apparent than at the start of Sunday's game against the Packers, and they held them to three points until the final two minutes of the first half. But as the game slipped away, so did the celebration.
They are pro football players. Manufactured enthusiasm doesn't work. If they make big play they respond to each other – not until. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Ivan
Mike,
Huge Seahawks fan here who's in the military and tries to catch the Hawks every chance he gets. Anyway, on to my question: Do you see the Seahawks being interested in say trading for a Roy Williams to shore up the wide receiver corps or any big cornerback before the deadline?
Ivan,
Now that the trade deadline has passed, it is no surprise that nothing happened, and the fact that Detroit traded Williams to Dallas. Seahawks president Tim Ruskell said before the season – despite the injuries – he was inclined not to make any trades and give up draft choices. That's his preference when it comes to building the team, with free agents sprinkled in. They were essentially forced to give up a pick for Keary Colbert because they were hamstrung without an receivers, and he certainly wasn't about to give up any more.
Theoretically they should be fine this week with veterans Deion Branch, Bobby Engram and Koren Robinson healthy together for the first time this season. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Mike
Mike,
You have referenced last year's decision to scrap the running game in November when it was clearly hurting the entire team. That decision was the turning point of the season and helped win the division. This year they have had the opposite problem, no doubt due to the injuries. It has been clear from Game 2 that the running game was one of the only things that is working. In the Niners game, they were driving for the go-ahead score and settled for a field goal after three incomplete passes, even though they were running downhill and could have iced the game.
With the receiver injuries and the obvious improvement on the offensive line and running back group, how are they not running 45 times per game? What about a larger role for T.J. Duckett, especially in the fourth quarter? How about surprising a defense by unleashing a power package that can dominate the line of scrimmage? That certainly would be good for morale.
Mike,
It's much simpler to scrap a running game and throw the football if you've got veteran receivers, solid pass protection and good chemistry. Precision and tempo can allow a team to move the football through the air. That's not the case if a team knows you're going to run. They'll put eight defensive players in the box and jam everything up, making it nearly impossible to move the football.
Once Hasselbeck gets healthy and presumably the receivers will now stay healthy, the imperative is to regain the balance, and that should breed confidence and momentum to turn this season around. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Erik
Mike,
I drove from Connecticut to New Jersey for the Giants game, and it was obviously disappointing. The best way to help our struggling but capable defense is to have a potent offense. I know Seneca Wallace was going to play receiver and possibly return punts before getting injured. Now that he is back healthy and Deion Branch is hurt again, combined with a 1-3 record, isn't now the time to FREE SENECA? I'm also looking forward to seeing Koren Robinson make some plays with his size and athleticism.
Erik,
Now that Wallace has struggled with a strained calf muscle, plus the return of Branch, Engram and the signing of Robinson, the wide receiver/punt-returner experiment is pretty close to being ancient history. There was a point this season because of all the injuries that it made sense. That's all changed with the aforementioned trio now available and Wallace still on the mend.
Right now, the hope is he's healthy enough to be mobile and start at quarterback on Sunday at Tampa Bay. Let's start with that. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
As the Seahawks enter this Sunday’s game with the Green Bay Packers at Qwest Field, not only are they preparing for the responsibility on the field, but off the field as well.
Statistically at 1-3, they’re looking to recoup their defensive intensity with the benefit of the home crowd, and find the offensive rhythm they’ve been seeking in the first four games. Nonetheless, the Seahawks do take the second best home record in the NFL since the end of the 2002 season into Sunday’s game with the Green Bay Packers (2-3) at a robust 35-8, second only to the 36-8 New England Patriots. The Seahawks also have the best record in the NFC since 2003, at 52-32.
And coming home always seems to put things into perspective for the Hawks with the benefit of the raucous home crowd riling the defense into circumstances such as eight sacks against San Francisco in the second game of the season.
Coming off the tough defeat in New York last week, the Seahawks did get an 8-catch performance from Bobby Engram, in his first game of the season due to a fractured shoulder suffered during training camp. There also is the specter of running back Julius Jones returning to Qwest Field, where he has games of 127 and 140, respectively in the two home games thus far.
In the passing game, with Engram back, quarterback Matt Hasselbeck has his favorite target of the past three seasons and keep in mind that Hasselbeck has proven to be the second most effective quarterback in the NFL at the end of each half since 2005.
Not only will the Seahawks be significant in the community on Sunday, they stepped up to the podium Tuesday – on their off-day – as well. As we have said before, the Seahawks are leading the King County United Way’s campaign this year. The overall campaign goal is $110 million which will benefit over 160 needy agencies. The campaign has a special focus on homelessness with over 8,000 people estimated to be homeless on any given night in King County.
The organization will make numerous appearances for the campaign and Tuesday Lofa Tatupu, Patrick Kerney and Deon Grant put on a rousing performance of representing the Seahawks at the headquarters of Costco, lighting up the crowd there with their support and revealing their personal experiences to help motivate others in the process.
It tends to be too easy to ignore how committed the players are to trumpeting goodwill in the community, and the impact of this mutual admiration between players and fans does carry over onto the playing field.
Now, on to the e-mail of the week from the fans:
From: Randy
Mike,
It would appear that the players and coaches both missed the boat on last week’s game planning for the Giants. How could they be so far off on gauging the defensive and offensive strengths of the G-men? We were lead to believe that with a two-week break and key players returning that we might see some improvement. That was a set up for a big fall by all Seahawk fans.
Randy,
Nobody is pleased by what happened last week. It was staggering in many ways because the Giants were flat-out overpowering and the Seahawks didn’t respond in kind. The players in the secondary said they didn’t play well and the staff wasn’t happy. It will require a much better performance to beat Green Bay and they know it.
The obvious answer to what happened is also just how good the Giants are right now. Not only are they Super Bowl Champs, but they are 18-4, including 11 of the last 13 games, since starting off last season at 0-2. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Joshua
Mike,
What about changes to the starting D-line? I heard Mike's disappointment. Why not put in Red Bryant and have him take his lumps now learning the game as a pro?
Joshua,
As time goes on, there very likely will be a lot of opportunities for other players on the roster, and one of them could be Bryant. He is very young, and missed nearly all of training camp following knee surgery. The last thing the Seahawks want to do is throw him in there when he’s not ready physically and/or mentally. The staff will know when the time is right and if they didn’t like him a lot, they wouldn’t have taken him in the draft. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Becky,
Mike,
After watching the poor performance by the Seahawks against the Giants, I was real frustrated. The Seahawks have so much talent on this team and should be able to beat any team out there. Don't get me wrong, I certainly haven't given up on them and never will, and I know they are trying their best but what will it take to fire these guys up?
Becky,
Even among professional athletes, confidence is a very tenuous element. That’s why momentum is so vital in every game in every sport. It’s particularly obvious in football, and it’s why you hear the phrase, “running downhill” so often when a team starts moving the ball well on the ground. By the same token, when a defense bottles up an offense, the running game is “running uphill.” The Giants are a veteran, powerful team that got it going on the ground and took advantage of their size advantage on the offensive line. The defense can turn that around this week by making stops and creating some turnovers against Green Bay.
The Seahawks offense still is trying to find a rhythm as a result of injuries that have saddled the wide receivers, and everyone involved in the offense still seeking the tempo that has made the Seahawks one of the top offensive teams in the NFL over the past 5-6 years. Hopefully, that will begin this week and they can build on it. Once it starts to happen, the confidence will build, and momentum will take over. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Dupre
Mike,
I must say that Seahawks don’t get much love from the ESPN or Showtime – there’s never much said about them. I live in Bermuda and I love the hawks so I do my best to promote and chat about my beloved team every chance I get. GO HAWKS!
Dupre,
Because the Seahawks playing far and away the most reclusive corner of the National Football League, the team has to be in the NFL Championship game before the national media takes full notice of what’s going on up here. We’re off the beaten track, so a lot of what is accomplished gets lost.
But should this team catch fire and get back into the NFC race, everybody will take notice. Until then, we’ll leave it your able hands to pump up the good stuff. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Dave
Mike,
What’s your feeling about Rob Sims? I thought so highly of him in his first year but after watching closely to his performance last year it seemed he missed the most assignments and was responsible for most busted plays! Granted Mike Wahle is amazing and a huge part of the success this year but part of me wonders if it isn't also Floyd Womack at right guard instead of Sims? If Womack plays the way he has all season long do you think he'll be the starter next season and just let Sims mature another year!
Dave,
Sims, like everybody else on the offensive line, had trouble getting it going last season. He had made terrific strides this season until the opening game in Buffalo when he ended up playing most of the game with a torn pectoral muscle that required surgery a few days later. He was young and needed the guidance he got from new line coaches Mike Solari and Mike DeBord. Sims was headed in that direction until the injury.
Meanwhile, the hope is that Womack does stay healthy and continues to raise his level of play as the season progresses. If that is the case, then it will set the stage for great competition next season which is exactly what the coaching staff wants to see. And the best man will win. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
From the outside looking in, the past nine months have flown by for the Seattle Seahawks since their loss at Green Bay in the Divisional Playoffs in January.
Except for Deion Branch.
Changes were made on offense … in the coaching staff, the offensive line and the backfield. More schemes were added.
Suddenly training camp and the preseason are ancient history and we’re already in the fifth week of the 2008 regular season.
But it took until now for the monotony to end for Branch, the 29-year-old wide receiver who this week says he is ready to play after tearing the ACL in his knee during that playoff game. Nobody outside the team saw the work he put in during the offseason, other than teammates and staff. There was strength and conditioning coach Darren Krein pushing him to the max with agility and weights before even broaching the subject of running and speed. That would be followed by stretching, ice, soaking and incessant hours with trainer Donald Rich working his leg in a boot with stimulation on the training table.
He was a fixture in the old Seahawks facility in Kirkland … pushing it, coping with it, and trying to put a smile on a daily return that not only wasn’t fun, but hurt. Heady stuff, it was not. Drudgery is a better description of the means to the end. And to top it off, he had to hear the constant chatter that he would be back sooner than the prescribed October date that was targeted all along.
Now it’s real. Branch, who has caught 102 passes for 1,386 yards and 8 touchdowns since being acquired from New England, is back at practice full shot this week. And everybody hopes he’ll be a significant contributor in Sunday’s game at Giants Stadium as the Seahawks look to gain ground in the NFC West.
“I think my timing’s been OK,” Branch said. “Early on I know there were a couple rumors about me coming back preseason, and I knew I wasn’t ready then. But I think I took the right amount of time to give my leg enough time to heal and for me to actually go out and run and do a couple things in practice to have the confidence that I could do it."
“I’m feeling good. It’s always good to be around these guys too, to help loosen you up a little bit. I’ve been doing a lot of work in the off-season and it’s going to pay off.”
An unusual set of circumstances that actually made Branch just the first of six injured receivers, has the offense in a bit of a quandary this week because entering Wednesday’s practice there are seven receivers on the roster. Veteran Bobby Engram also is practicing with hopes of playing Sunday for the first time as well following a fractured shoulder in training camp, so coach Mike Holmgren is taking a wait-and-see attitude with both players.
But Branch knows, at this point, most of what he’s looking at is the mental aspect of the knee and how it will respond to stops, starts, cuts and hits. There is total agreement that the strength of the leg is back to where it was, and perhaps stronger.
In fact, the rock solid 5-9, 195-pounder is even going to challenge his teammates to give him the first hit in practice so he can get used to contact. Oh, it’s not as if he’s joking around to sell the opportunity to the highest bidder, but close.
“I know it sounds crazy, but I’m going to have the guys do it,” Branch said. “I’m going to do a little banging and stuff in practice. I want to go through that phase, because I know we don’t tackle that much in practice. I’ll have Coach Krein do a couple things with me tomorrow, a couple exercises here and there where I’m going to have some impact. So hopefully I’ll be able to sustain that and be OK.”
“I pretty much had to put my body and put my leg through every actual phase of football for me to feel like, ‘OK, I feel like I can go out and play,’” Branch said. “The doctor always told me my leg was healed before. My leg was healed a long time ago. It was the mental part that had to break through. I feel like I’ve broken that cycle. I feel pretty good.”
Now it’s time to roll with it.
On to the e-mail of the week:
From: Mike B.
Mike,
First of all I must say GO SEAHAWKS. My question is when we get back Deion Branch and Bobby Engram, are we going to have to release any of the receivers we have now or will they be signed to the practice squad?
Mike B.,
That will be a difficult decision to make this week, as the entire staff – including the doctors, trainers, coaches and front office – must arrive at the conclusion of how ready Branch and Engram are to compete. If they are both ready, then what do they do with the group that includes Keary Colbert, Billy McMullen, Michael Bumpus, Koren Robinson and Courtney Taylor.
For a player to be placed on the practice squad, he’ll have to clear waivers first. And I believe only Bumpus is eligible because of limited playing time on the 53-man roster. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Taylor
Mike,
Are the Seahawks going to start running the ball a lot more at home, because Julius Jones over his career has averaged over 100 yards a game."
Taylor,
They ran the ball more last week than any other game in the 10 seasons that Mike Holmgren has been coach, but I don’t think that is going to be the dominant aspect of their offense any more than the way Matt Hasselbeck threw more down the stretch of last season than any other time with the Seahawks.
The key for the Seahawks offense is a blend of the two with great tempo. Once they get into a short passing, blasting running game, they are a very difficult offense to slow down. That is the goal – to mix it up enough that they are unpredictable. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: David
Mike,
Thanks for the great info Mike. My question has to do more with our next game against the Giants. I hear they have a bad record at home and since we have a bad road record whose is worse, our road record or their home record? Also Plaxico Burress is appealing the suspension. How likely is it that the league will let him play against Seattle? Go HAWKS!!!!!!!!!
David,
For the record, the Seahawks have lost six of their last nine regular season road games, while the Giants lost five of their last eight home games last season. They came from behind to beat the Cincinnati Bengals at home in overtime two weeks ago – overall they have split their last 10 games at home.
As for Burress, he is negotiating to cut down the fine he will receive, but the Giants have suspended him from the game. It is not a league suspension. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Joaquin
Mike,
I was so happy when the Seahawks won against Rams, but we have to accept that the Rams are not a serious parameter to test our strengths or weaknesses. It was good because it helped get the confidence back and that it is possible to win even without our starting wide receivers and more. It showed us that there is life after Shaun Alexander in the rushing game. But in your point of view, is what we saw in the last game a reflection of what the team is capable of doing or just because it was a bad Rams?
By the way, I am writing from New Jersey. It was hard, but I got tickets to see the game at the Giants Stadium, to show to the East Coast that the 12th man is present here too.
Joaquin,
Nobody has any illusions about the problems the Rams were having and the transition they will go through now that Scott Linehan has been fired as coach. But that does not minimize the impressive manner in which the Seahawks took care of business. That’s what good teams do – jump on bad teams and taken them out quickly. And of course, it helps the confidence level. Now we’ll see if there is carry over when they get to Giants Stadium.
And it’s your job to make sure the Seahawks know you are there. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Mickey
Mike,
I just want to know your personal thoughts about Billy McMullen. I wasn't too impressed with this guys resume when we signed him, but I must admit that I am pleasantly surprised with his development. He was seemingly thrown to the wolves his first week with us. And he's responded by leading the team in catches and receiving yards since we acquired him. With Branch and Engram coming back after the bye week, shouldn't McMullen be the hands-down choice to be the third receiver?
The more I watch this guy play, the more he grows on me. Plus, it's a great feel good story for the Seahawks and the NFL. Here's a guy that was unemployed last year and he makes his first start against the Rams and has a career day. Good find Coach Holmgren!!
Mickey,
A lot of credit must be given to pro personnel director Will Lewis and his staff for finding McMullen, and the coaching staff – receiver coach Keith Gilbertson, et al – for getting McMullen ready. But you’re right, McMullen deserves all the credit in the world for hanging in there and producing after not having played in an NFL game in two years.
But it’s really hard to know what will happen over the next week and the kind of receivers the Seahawks want to keep around. With Branch and Engram, that makes seven. Regardless of what happens, McMullen earned a lot of respect from everyone in and around the Seahawks organization. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Kip
Mike,
Does Matt Hasselbeck spend any extra time after regular practice with the rookie tight end John Carlson or any of the other receivers so “I know where to throw the ball on this play because you know I am going to throw a quick -out or post,” type of thing? What I am saying is the communication with certain receivers in a game breaking down is poetry if it is well rehearsed, and it takes more than just regular practice to achieve excellence in competing at this level and going beyond.
Kip,
Not only do they throw – particularly in the offseason – but there are countless discussions in meetings and afterward. There isn’t as much down time during the regular season for ‘extra throwing’ as you may think. There are countless meetings, film sessions and during the season physical therapy and weight lifting are important after practice as well.
That’s why there are all the offseason programs in this generation of football, to create that kind of chemistry in the offseason so once the season begins, it’s second nature. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Joey
Mike,
With all the talk about our running game and how it has been the best since couple of years ago, why aren't we giving more props to our offensive line. Better yet, I think we should give props to our running back coach and offensive line coach. They're the ones who create schemes and plays they run - correct me if I'm wrong on that one.
Another thing I've been hearing about from ESPN and other sports centers out there is how good Tony Romo, Drew Brees, Donovan McNabb and other NFL quarterbacks are, but nothing about Matt Hasselbeck. I put him with Peyton Manning and Tom Brady as one of the best quarterbacks out there right now. I'm not talking about numbers - because numbers can be misleading. You can have big passing numbers and still lose. I'm talking about how he manages the game and how good of a leader he is. Agree? Give him some love man!!!
Joey,
A lot of people are involved in creating the schemes for running the football, from Holmgren through offensive coordinator Gil Haskell, to offensive line coach Mike Solari and running back coach Kasey Dunn.
Regarding Hasselbeck, he tends to be underrated until later in the year, and this season in particular because his numbers are down considerably from his career totals mostly because of injuries. He’s been to the Pro Bowl the past three years, so it isn’t as if he isn’t respected by his fellow players. If the Seahawks get their offense rolling and win their fifth straight NFC West crown, Hasselbeck will get his due. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Chris
Mike,
I'm personally quite happy with the decision of keeping two kickers on the team. Olindo Mare is doing just fine as of now and hasn't missed a kick all year. But he has been injury prone in the past, and if i believe correctly was on IR for much of last year. Plus, they only signed Mare to a two year deal. So keep the rookie Brandon Coutu in the mix for that span, let him grow, learn and mature, so if Mare gets injured or is done after the 2 years, they already have a kicker in mind who knows the team and the surroundings.
Chris,
Interesting for you to take on that subject matter, but clearly the staff likes Mare for the short term and wants to hang on to Coutu for the long term. It’s tough to pull off with the roster limitations in this day and age, but it’s obvious how strongly the staff feels about the both of them.
And I don’t believe it’s about injury concerns as much as not wanting to lose either one of them. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Yoon
Mike,
I was just curious … with all the injuries so far, has the Seahawks front office considered looking into what's causing them? Perhaps a new kind of turf they’re using? Or maybe not working on flexibility as part of there work out program? I am not saying those are the reasons why just listing some examples. Or are they just letting it be and saying it's bad luck?
Yoon,
You make a very good point, but if it were confined to the Seahawks, it would be a lot more practical. Just look at the wide receivers that have gotten hurt this season and the different in injuries – Bobby Engram (shoulder), Ben Obomanu (clavicle), and Logan Payne (knee). Guard Rob Sims tore his pectoral muscle.
The problem is league-wide. Let’s face it - the players continue to get bigger, stronger and faster. That translates into more and more vicious collisions and more injuries. The league is trying to legislate on some types of hits. It is a violent game that results with numerous injuries. For a team to succeed in this day and age, they’ve got to be fortunate injury-wise and be as deep as possible. Technology and studies being what they are today, you can count on the Seahawks being up to date. It’s just been an unfortunate start and hopefully it will even out with good health as the season moves along. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
It’s time to reboot.
Going into the bye week coming off a 37-13 win over the Rams was huge for the Seahawks, who have continued to show muscle in the running game progressively in each of the three games so far this season.
Consider they ran for 85 yards in the opening game loss at Buffalo, the 169 yards against the San Francisco 49ers and 245 Sunday against the Rams. When you consider 499 yards in three games, it is the kind of running game that big-time football teams consistently put on the field.
Moreover, that kind of rushing attach will in the long run strengthen the defense through ball control and augment the explosive passing game for Matt Hasselbeck once Bobby Engram and Deion Branch return healthy.
With 312 yards rushing through three games, Julius Jones is third in the NFL in rushing, and has two rushing touchdowns of more than 20 yards – it’s the kind of explosiveness that the Seahawks hoped for when he was signed in the offseason. His back-to-back 100-yard games mark the first time in two years they’ve had that and the 245 yards as a team – particularly the 79 yards and two touchdowns from T.J. Duckett – packed the most formidable punch the Seahawks have had since the 320 yards rushing during the 2005 season.
The defense has shown considerable ability to shut down the running game, particularly in the last two games with Frank Gore and Stephen Jackson, and greatly improved the pass defense against the Rams.
But what stood out to jump start the team and carry it through that win was the play of Hasselbeck, who began the game 7-of-9 passing and finished the game completing strikes to seven receivers. And to top it off, he was the one leading the way downfield in Jones’ 29-yard touchdown run. In the end, he completely sold out, throwing a cross-body block that knocked down not just one, but two Rams defensive backs.
It turned on the entire Seahawks team as Hasselbeck came off the field grinning ear to ear. Then again, not everybody was thrilled, namely coach Mike Holmgren. Just the thought of Hasselbeck downfield throwing his body around is enough to keep Holmgren awake at nights.
But in retrospect, he appreciated the effort, and the effect his leadership has had on the rest of the team.
“I think Matt phoned me last night and said, ‘Did you see the play?’” Holmgren said. “Yeah, it’s the play of the day. It’s phenomenal. It was a great play. Bless his heart. It was a great play. It showed his competitiveness, it showed his willingness to do anything to win, it was a great play … very athletic. His teammates love him for it. It’s all good stuff.
“My point – and Matt won’t listen to me, so I want you to listen to me - is that I’ve seen quarterbacks get hurt doing that. And you can’t, for the sake of one great play, lose your quarterback. You just can’t. [You could] jam an elbow, goofy stuff, sprain a wrist. But the thing is, you can tell the player that until you’re blue in the face, and when it comes to the game and here I am and here they come, he’s hearing the drums beating too. He is. I mean, I can sense kind of what that huddle was like. He’s going to do it. You just hope it’s not a burn and crash deal.”
Nonetheless, he did it, he didn’t get hurt and it was a touchdown with great leadership and they go into the bye with momentum and a happy face. Let’s take a deep breath and keep it rolling as the post-bye games begin Oct. 5 in New York against the Giants.
From: Brett
Mike,
I have not hit the panic button yet. I am marking off the days until our receivers get back though. We have one of the greatest coaches in the history of professional football, a top-5 quarterback, and a defense that gets better and better. By the way Buffalo is 3-0 and a legitimate contender to win its division.
My question is, with all the talent at running back, why only a few balls thrown to them out of the backfield? Last year, Leonard Weaver was awesome catching and running, and Julius Jones just proved he is going to be a big weapon. If the O line keeps getting up like against San Fran, let’s get some big plays in the flats! Come on coach, show us the screens!
Brett,
One reason that they haven’t had much luck throwing to the backs is because the receivers haven’t required double teams so they haven’t been open. If there is no concern downfield with the receiver, the drops aren’t as deep and the check downs aren’t open. Once Bobby Engram and Deion Branch return – requiring far more attention from the secondary – that will open up the underneath routes of screens and flat passes exponentially more.
The intent is certainly there, but it will require the full complement of receivers before there will be the kind of open field opportunities that you’re talking about. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Gordon
Mike,
First thing’s first – it was great game on both sides of the ball against the Rams. It’s fun to watch the Hawks run!! And with the progression of Michael Bumpus and Billy McMullen, are we going to be seeing a deadline trade for maybe a little bit more security on defense, maybe a run stopper or cornerback in case of injuries to one of our starters? We do have a great starting 11 and it’s nice to see them pull it together, but if one of them goes down we end up with a serious weakness in our defense.
Gordon,
I don’t know about adding another player to the roster at this point. There are four corners: Marcus Trufant, Kelly Jennings, Josh Wilson and Kevin Hobbs, plus versatile Jordan Babineaux, so I don’t see any point in that. And I think the defensive tackles are doing fine. Brandon Mebane and Rocky Bernard have played well, and Howard Green has turned out to be a free agent find. I don’t see where there has been a problem at all with the run defense – they did a great job with Frank Gore and Stephen Jackson.
If anything, when everybody is back, maybe somebody gets moved to add a draft choice if possible from losing one in the Keary Colbert deal with Denver. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Rick
Mike,
It is evident that Julius Jones thrives in games that he is the primary running back. Is it possible that the decision could be made to keep him as the main back and Maurice Morris and T.J. Duckett placed in second and third spots? I am relieved that we have such a solid ground-game again.
Rick,
How Mike Holmgren handles the running back situation after the bye week beginning in New York against the Giants will be one of the more interesting stories. With Jones averaging 133.5 yards the past two weeks and ranking third overall in the NFL with 312 yards, he has obviously made a strong case for himself. Duckett has been a superb short yardage back, so that will still be his primary responsibility.
We’ll find out soon. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Patrick
Mike,
I was wondering if you knew why the Seahawks kept both Olindo Mare and Brandon Coutu on their 53-man regular season roster and cut Justin Forsett.
Patrick,
It’s an interesting scenario, but there is the obvious. They want Coutu for the big picture in the years to come and were certain they would lose him if they attempted to get him through waivers to the practice squad. They took a calculated risk that Forsett would slip through waivers and then sign him for the PS.
Unfortunately, the gamble didn’t work and he’s on the Colts now. But keep in mind he was at best their fourth running back, and other than the Bears game, he didn’t have much of a positive punt return experience. They are solid on kickoff returns. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Dan
Mike,
I am a Packers fan living in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I congratulate the Seahawks for taking back Koren Robinson. When he was with the Packers he was a real feel good story, how well he was doing while suspended, then coming back to play were weekly updates in the media. All summer I have been tracking Koren to see where he would end up. I am delighted he's found a home. He was an inspiration to us here in Wisconsin and I think he will be for you too.
Dan,
That’s an interesting perspective on Robinson. Wherever he’s been, people have enjoyed his presence and wish him well. Essentially, it’s all up to him and how well he handles himself in the short run and the long run. There are a lot of people in his corner and hopefully, he will utilize it to gain strength is his development on and off the field. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Dustin
Mike,
I’ve been transplanted to Portland and I’ve never seen as much bad luck with injuries as the Seahawks have faced, most importantly on the offense end. With that being said, we all expected the defense to be more consistent with their blitzes and have more enthusiasm. Lofa Tatupu needs to take more control as the leader, don’t you think?
Dustin,
The good news is people are getting healthy and the bye week will go a long way toward getting a lot of guys healed up for the long run of the final 13 games plus the playoffs. Normally, an early bye week isn’t helpful, but this is clearly the exception under the circumstances of the injuries.
The defense rebounded well this past weekend against the Rams. They’ve done a great job of shutting down high level running backs in Frank Gore and Stephen Jackson. Tatupu is doing fine, and will be even better as the season goes on. He needed some time to help his sore knee and hand. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Josh
Mike,
It's pretty evident the Seahawks must win on the road to have any chance of playoff hopes. Every year you hope to win all your home games especially with the advantage of playing at Qwest Field. Now that plan has been altered. We need to win all games against NFC west opponents home and away plus steal some tough games on the road. I just don't know if our depleted offense can come through. A win streak of about 5 or 6 games is just what the Hawks need to gain confidence for the tough last half of their schedule.
Josh,
My theory for making the playoffs has always been how to arrive at 10-6, to assure the NFC West title, and I still believe that will win the division. The most practical sense is to hope for a 6-2 or 7-1 record at home, which is right on with what it has been during the course of Qwest Field history. If that’s the case, they’ll need to finish at least 3-4 and hopefully 4-3 away from home.
It does no good to break down which games is which because teams can change so quickly due to injuries. The margin of error is shrinking, but if they come out of the bye week hot, they can roll right into their fifth division title in a row and from there, anything can happen. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Andy
Mike,
Hello Mike! I've been a Seahawks fan since they formed the team in the mid-70's when I was a student at Renton High School. I now teach in Pennsylvania and it is more than a little difficult to keep up with my favorite team. The last I heard, Jordan Kent was still on the team. Is this still true? If so, why isn't he our go-to-guy? I realize he is young and has very limited football experience, but he seems to carry a lot of innate skills and be willing to work to develop them. I don't recall seeing him in the last game. Was he there?
I know we're very low on able-bodied receivers and Koren Robinson and Keary Colbert should provide us with two more options. As I recall, aside from his off-field problems, Koren was quite good on the field, playing several years with Matt Hasselbeck for Coach Holmgren. Also, with Mo Morris hurt, our running backs do not appear as deep as they were in training camp. Thanks for your time and thoughts.
Andy,
Kent does have a lot of innate skills, and had a good preseason, but he still has to develop as a consistent NFL receiver catching the football and running routes the same way. He is so young in his game, another season on the practice squad will only help him. If he makes the same progress from this year to next as he did from last season to now, he’ll be a factor next season on the roster.
We’ll just have to wait and see how much of a factor Robinson and Colbert are. Of course losing Morris cuts into the depth, but only temporarily because his injury has not been considered serious. Besides, with Julius Jones and T.J. Duckett at tailback, if they needed a third one, Leonard Weaver would slide back to the position – which he does on short yardage occasionally anyway – and rookie Owen Schmitt would move in as the blocking fullback. So they’re fine at halfback. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Trox
Mike,
For one, I'm glad for the injuries and bad breaks. These things usually even out. I would rather start off slow and finish strong. Isn't that what happened with the Steelers (2005) and Giants (2007) Super Bowl runs? Odds are good that things will turn around for the better. When they do there will be a lot of great football and payback...especially with the 49'ers. Don't be surprised if we get Deion Branch and Bobby Engram back for the Giants game that we pull off the upset. Take care 12th man … good times are a comin'!!"
Trox,
That’s the positive spin and what everybody in and around the team is hoping. It will be tough coming out of the break in New York against the Giants, but getting to 2-2 will be huge compared to 1-3, and the 49ers game won’t be haunting. More than anything, it’s just a matter of winning the division by any means it takes. Does it mean they can run the table at home the rest of the way … they’ve done it before.
On the road, it must be proven they can win the big games – sweeping the division road games would be a great start and hopefully winning one or two more. If that’s the case, they can build momentum going down the stretch and open the door for a great post-season run. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
This was the perfect opportunity for Seahawks president Tim Ruskell to explain how profound he is in his desire to put character as the primary focus when building the personnel for this organization.
Three years and three months after making Koren Robinson one of his first major veteran releases as president of the team in 2005 because of off-field indiscretions, Ruskell signed off on bringing back the rehabilitated wide receiver as the potential antidote to the stunning loss of six wide receivers to injury that have played a major role in the Seahawks 0-2 start.
A week after coach Mike Holmgren and quarterback Matt Hasselbeck lobbied to bring back Robinson, Ruskell and his staff went deep into Robinson’s present day situation and concluded at 28, with two children and his wife pregnant, this is a different guy than the one three years ago.
Ruskell addressed the situation Tuesday on a conference call with the media.
“We did a lot of research,” Ruskell said. “We didn’t just do this haphazardly or spur-of-the-moment. A lot of people in the organization were involved. Initially when I heard, or Coach had brought it up, I was against it, just because everybody knows what our commitment is philosophically in terms of character. My first involvement with Koren, he was going through some tough things and some bad incidents that had gotten public.
“My whole deal was, we just can’t have knuckleheads around here. That can’t happen.
Coach had actually brought it up initially, along with Matt through a third party, talking about the meeting he had had with Koren in this retreat. That was really the initial talk. Like I said, initially, (I was) against the idea, but once we started doing our research, (we) sent (pro personnel director) Will Lewis out to meet with Koren, and (player liaison) Maurice Kelly, we started hearing favorable things that kind of verified what Matt had been saying about, ‘This is a different Koren.’”
That’s not to say this is the start of a change in concept for this team. Ruskell, along with vice presidents Ruston Webster and John Idzik, are steeped in the focus of building a team on character first that they were raised on by Jerry Angelo in Tampa. They won a Super Bowl there under those auspices, and made it to Super Bowl XL the first year here.
Ruskell said that Lewis and Kelly concluded his priorities in life had changed thanks to his family, so it should make it a much more practical transition back to excelling in football.
“We didn’t do this lightly,” Ruskell said. “This was a lot of talking. This was a lot of research. And I could be wrong. We could be wrong. But you know, Koren’s a good person. You want to give him his due. I think all of us believe in second chances, and this has a chance to be a good story. It could be because he wants it as bad as anybody and we would like it to happen too.
“Coach has a special relationship with Koren. He brought him into this team. I have to hear all of that. I have to listen to that. I’m not just, ‘Okay, he did this, boom, he’s out.’ I’ve never been that way. But our philosophy is in tact. Koren knows it, and he and I have a side agreement on how that’s going to go, and that’ll stay between us, and that’ll be very important. I expect it to go well. I understand the criticism, but I had to make the best decision for the football team. We had to make the best decision for the football team, and we believe we’ve done that.”
Now for the e-mail of the week:
From: Fletch
Mike,
All things considered the offense played well this past weekend. Obviously the turnovers were extremely costly, but the area that concerns me most is the secondary. Their coverage was shaky even with the pressure on a young quarterback like J.T. O’Sullivan. They also kept many Niners drives going with costly penalties. This has got to change if the defense wants to be a “Dominant D” like they talked about all preseason, because they are nowhere close to that right now. Just wondering your thoughts are on this and what needs to change for them to be successful. Thanks for all your insight.
Fletch,
It’s too early to quit on a secondary that led the entire NFL in fewest touchdowns allowed and entered the final week of last season touting the “lowest quarterback rating” until that crazy loss at Atlanta pushed them out. Obviously there were problems in the loss to the 49ers. There were breakdowns for a lot of reasons, some of them occurred when O’Sullivan escaped the pocket. Other times, there was a blown coverage or a crushing penalty.
The good news is there are 14 games left and there was the entire 2007 season to see what these guys are capable of accomplishing. And when you blow a coverage in the secondary, it’s there for everyone to see, so you can count on these guys being prepared for this weekend because they have to prove themselves this week and each one that follows. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Rich
Mike,
With all the new skill players on offense how limited is coach Holmgren on his play calling?
Rich,
Sure, with all the new faces and inexperience, that has shrunk the playbook in the passing game to a certain extent. That’s why it helps a lot bringing back Koren Robinson because he already knows the terminology and routes, plus he had four years with Matt Hasselbeck. Keary Colbert also knows the West Coast offense – although the Mike Shanahan version – from Denver.
This has been a tough start, no doubt. This is a huge game with the Rams Sunday, and win can change the temperature considerably, with the bye week to follow to lick their wounds. The hope is that Branch and Engram will be back the following week, and momentum could change in a hurry. Perhaps we have just experienced the storm before the calm. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Ryan
Mike,
Obviously, it’s WAY too early to hit the panic button for the season, but with the Giants, Packers, and Bucs on the horizon after the bye week, the chances of us catching Arizona anytime soon doesn't seem likely. We need a spark for the offense. Any chance we give Josh Wilson a shot at wide receiver His speed can't be ignored.
Ryan,
That’s not the first time it has been brought up about Wilson, but the reality is with most of those cornerbacks if they were really good at catching the football, they would already be receivers. Ever noticed how many times a defensive back drops a ball thrown right at him? Just because they are very athletic and appear to have good hands doesn’t meant they are cut out for being receivers.
It isn’t logical, but in most cases, it happens to be the truth … regardless of how much the defensive backs argue to the contrary. And with the additions of Robinson and Colbert, it’s no longer necessary to put pressure on other positions. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Frank
Mike,
Why did we release Justin Forsett? He showed that he can run the ball.
Frank,
It was a tough call as it came to the cuts and the need to add wide receivers. Forsett had a great game running the football against the Bears in the preseason, and showed flashes in other games. But keep in mind it was the preseason against second and third-team defenses, and the Seahawks already have Julius Jones, Maurice Morris and T.J. Duckett ahead of him, with Leonard Weaver also playing spot halfback.
He was well-liked, which is why he was drafted, but only injuries made him a possibility because of his return skills. Nonetheless, they planned on him clearing waivers as Jordan Kent did and putting him on the practice squad. It was unfortunate. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Ryan
Mike,
I was very disappointed to see us lose again. However, I was proud to see players except personal responsibility for what happened, and not just blame weather and injuries on what’s going on. In a time of egos and “me first” it's nice to see a team that wins together and loses together. Nor-Cal Hawks Fan for 25 years and forever."
Ryan,
That is precisely why Tim Ruskell, Mike Holmgren and the staff place a premium on character on and off the field. Not only are the players accountable to themselves, but they are consistently accountable to each other. It has everything to do with why they have won four NFC West titles in a row, and why Ruskell stills to his perspective of ignoring the talented knuckleheads.
It doesn’t require many bad character guys to poison a locker room, and that’s why these guys have the ability to battle back after losses. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Dane
I’m curious after all the talk about winning on the road, what kind of change will there be this season?
Dane,
Well, we’ll have to wait and see, and we’ll find out pretty quickly after the bye week, when they play at New York against the Giants, come home to play the Packers, and then travel to Tampa Bay and San Francisco. Two weeks later – with the Eagles playing at Qwest Field in between – they travel to Miami. So that’s three out of four and four out of six away from home after the bye week.
It appears Holmgren has no interest in fiddling with the schedule of flights. They’ll fly in two days before on games in Eastern Standard Time and day before with all others. One change he did make was the strict 11 p.m. curfew, which considering it’s 8 p.m. PT, apparently had the opposite effect than its intention – so that should help for a more fitful sleep. Otherwise, it will just be up to the offense to deal with the noise factor and the defense to muster up its own intensity as opposed to having the Qwest Field crowd give them additional energy. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
As expected, Tuesday was a day of movement for the Seattle Seahawks.
They made several roster adjustments on Tuesday and a couple of announcements on Wednesday as well.
It all began Tuesday, placing wide receiver Nate Burleson on injured reserve for the season in the wake of his season-ending knee injury in Sunday’s loss at Buffalo.
Filling the roster spot to replace Burleson is veteran free agent Billy McMullen, a 6-4, 210-pound wide receiver with four years experience in the West Coast offense at Philadelphia and Minnesota. The 28-year-old from the University of Virginia caught 23 passes for 307 yards and 2 touchdowns for the Vikings two years ago. He did not play in the NFL last season, and has amassed 45 receptions and 45 games, including the two touchdowns and a third score on a fumble recovery.
And that was just the beginning. The Seahawks placed right guard Rob Sims on injured reserve with a torn pectoral muscle, and signed former Oregon receiver Samie Parker, a 5-10, 185-pounder, who played the last four seasons for the Kansas City Chiefs. Parker, 27, has 110 catches for 1,529 yards in 47 NFL games – his best season 41 receptions in 2006. He also has seven career touchdowns.
The Seahawks also waived running back Justin Forsett and wide receiver Jordan Kent to create roster spots for defensive tackle Rocky Bernard and defensive back Jordan Babineaux – both of whom were suspended by the NFL in Week 1 for off-field violations of NFL policy.
In addition to those moves, they also announced the waiving of punter/holder Ryan Plackemeier and the signing of Jon Ryan, who punted for the Green Bay Packers last season. Ryan averaged 44.5 yards for the Packers the previous two seasons before being released in camp this season. Before the Packers he kicked for Winnipeg of the Canadian Football League.
Plackemeier was a seventh round draft choice out of Wake Forest in 2006 and averaged 42.4 yards in 190 punts over his two seasons. He tore a pectoral muscle in the 2008 offseason workout program and didn’t participate in training camp until late to compete with Reggie Hodges. Plackemeier still won the job, but he had a pair of 22-yard punts in Sunday’s loss at Buffalo.
Kent was a fifth round draft choice out of Oregon in 2007, the first three-sport athlete – including basketball and track – in Division I for five years. He didn’t play football until his senior year, and spent last season the practice squad. Nonetheless, he led the Seahawks with 11 receptions and two touchdowns. Forsett was a seventh round pick in 2008. He had 248 yards on 46 carries and a touchdown during the preseason while also returning kickoffs and punts.
The Seahawks roster now stands at 53.
With that settled for the time being, here are the e-mail of the week:
From: Fletch
Mike,
How does the team prepare for East Coast trips? Do they cut the week short and come over a day earlier than they would for a trip to San Francisco or Arizona? They rarely play well on East Coast trip day games, which is 10 a.m. in Seattle. I've made the trip both ways from Florida many times and I always find it easier to adapt heading west. I was just wondering considering they have quite a few more long trips ahead. Thanks for all your insight.
Fletch,
It is a different deal going into the Eastern Time Zone. When going to Buffalo, for example, the Seahawks had a brief practice Friday morning and then flew to Buffalo, and had a walk-through on Saturday in Buffalo. On trips to teams in the same time zone, they will always go the day before.
There was a time when going to Central, like St. Louis, they would try the extra day. That didn’t work particularly well, so the decision was made to go the day before to every time zone except east. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Logan
Mike,
After watching the Seahawks last game, I think it's obvious that the Seahawks need one or two receivers who can catch the ball. All summer you praised the young receivers, yet against the Bills Courtney Taylor dropped three passes, Jordan Kent didn't catch any passes, and Logan Payne only caught two. The only young receiver who made an impact was the tight end, John Carlson.
With the season ending injury to Nate Burleson, Tim Ruskell should sense the urgency to trade for one or two receivers who can catch the ball (Such as Anquan Boldin, of the Cardinals, or Roy Williams, of the Lions.) The Seahawks aren't going to win many games with just Deion Branch to throw to! Good luck Seattle! Thanks for listening.
Logan,
Nobody is going to sugar-coat what happened in Buffalo. On top of the pressure on the young receivers, the weather was horrid, the defense prevented Matt Hasselbeck from getting into rhythm, and then Burleson went down. Obviously, things couldn’t have been much worse. The good news is it is just one game and this week there will be adjustments made conceptually and personnel-wise to help rectify what went wrong.
Then again, the Seahawks are coming home to good weather and the support of the crowd this week, and that is guaranteed to help eliminate some of the problems. Let’s get by the first game and see if it was the exception or the rule. There’s a long way to go. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: James
Mike,
After watching the Buffalo game, I think it is safe to say we have a lot of work to do. I understand Sean Locklear was out, but what was wrong with the offensive line? They couldn’t protect Matt Hasselbeck at all. Bruce DeHaven needs to get the special teams under control quick, because giving up points on special teams is too much. The receiving corps needs veterans badly.
James,
There’s no doubt that it was rather startling with the way the offensive line was buffaloed, so to speak. Not to underestimate what happened, but they do have an exceptional defensive line and good linebackers. They came full blast; Hasselbeck got sacked five times and wasn’t allowed to find any semblance of tempo. To be sure, adjustments will be made because it’s very likely the 49ers will take a similar approach this week and attempt to pressure Hasselbeck as much as possible. It will also help if they can establish the run earlier too.
As for special teams, the transition on the roster made it tough for DeHaven to settle on particular players, so that too has been a fluid situation. Injuries have obviously had an impact and there figure to be some personnel changes that will help as well. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Troy
Mike,
Well after all the hype of a new running game with Julius Jones, a better offensive line behind coach Mike Solari. the return of all 11 starters on defense, I must say the Seahawks looked horrible. Not to take anything away from the Bills. but all the hyped improvements just weren't there. so now I really don’t see us getting even close to a playoff game.
Those improvements are supposed to be made in the off-season and training camp, not during the season. I know … be patient. But this team looked like they'd be lucky to win five games. I saw nothing positive from this game. so what do we do now?
Troy,
First of all, close your eyes, take a deep breath and count to 10. That’s a good start. A game like that is better ignored than focused upon. Obviously, they were shell-shocked to start the game and the second half the running game was much better. If it doesn’t improve this week, then it will be more significant. Unlike you, the staff and the players had to watch the game at least one more time and probably more than once.
With Maurice Morris (sprained knee) out, Jones will get a full shot this week as will the offensive line to establish the ground game at home in good weather. This will be a much better indication of where they are and where they are going with the running game. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Garrett
Mike,
Let's start by saying something positive about Sunday’s game against the Bills, we went to the Super Bowl last time we lost the opener. But what really concerns me is our offense. We didn't execute at all and there were terrible play calls like a run on 3rd and long. I understand that the Bills defense was purposely confusing Hasselbeck and there was a ton of calls that weren't and were called but execution is vital. Now seeing our receivers I am hoping that it might change the lineup; like for instance quarterback Seneca Wallace moving over to a wide out spot.
I did like our run defense for the most part though, other than large amounts of misses. Also coming out of the second half we saw the running game we were hoping to see all year last year and the entire offseason. Last Sunday was a bad game and I have a feeling Coach Holmgren won't let it happen again against NFC West rivals the San Francisco 49ers. I smell a good HOME season.
Garrett,
You’re right about the trip to the Super Bowl coming after that 26-14 embarrassing loss at Jacksonville in the 2005 opener. The only thing that made this one worse was the weather and the special teams woes. The Bills defense did do a good job, but that should translate into the offense adjusting. There were numerous reasons – particularly the inexperience at receiver – so this week will be interesting.
Will this “Free Seneca,” as people have suggested so he can play wide receiver and return kicks come to fruition? That’s a good question. Is that a panic move? This will be a fascinating week, but coming home for Weeks 2 and 3 will help a lot. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Doug
Mike,
Wow. What a huge disappointment. I was so excited to see our new running game. It's non-existent. I was chomping at the bit to see our young receivers come to play. They didn't. I was ready to see our defense prove they belong in the top 5 in the NFL. Not sure they do. This was a terrible way to begin our last season. How do scrape up something good to take away from this and hit it hard next week? I love our Hawks and can't understand why our excitement was so misplaced after watching this game. Come on Hawks! Let's go!!!!
Doug,
The best way to get past it is to let it go. There are no guarantees any week, but it’s hard to fathom on a beautiful Sunday afternoon in Qwest Field against the 49ers we won’t see a completely different football team. Just as quickly as things can come apart, the confidence can be re-instilled and this team can get back on track.
Nobody expects to get their top four receivers injured like the Seahawks did, but it happened. Now they have to adjust and it will take some time for things to work themselves out. A solid all around win this week can cure a lot of ills, with the Rams coming in the following week and then the bye week for a much-needed health break. A little chill break between Games 1 and 2 should help a lot. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: William
Mike,
Which Seahawk players do think will have a breakout or career season? And what do you the Seahawks record will be in 2008? Thanks for answering my questions and GO SEAHAWKS.
William,
It depends on your definition of breakout season. There is a chance that Leroy Hill could become the third Seahawks linebacker on the Pro Bowl squad, but it isn’t as if Hill is anonymous. He’s already established himself as an impact player.
There are two young starters that will have a chance to really establish themselves for the Seahawks this season, one on offense and one on defense. With nearly a full season under his belt, fullback Leonard Weaver has a chance to be a superb fullback – blocking, receiving and running – in this league. And for all the talk about the need for a run-stuffer, second-year defensive tackle Brandon Mebane has a chance to become exceptional. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Randy
Mike,
I think the true test of any quality team is what Seattle did in 2005. The offense has to dominate playing time over the defense, mix the running and passing attack, be versatile with receivers and most importantly pick up the third and fourth short-yardage downs without hesitation. Defense needs to get off the field after three downs and special teams need to pull their own weight. We need quality players to fill in when injuries crop up, everyone has to be ready when their number is called.
Anything less then this will produce a mediocre team. Hopefully the coaching staff and players can make this happen in 2008. Good luck Coach Holmgren on your final season!
Randy,
You really didn’t miss a trick there in your explanation of how and why the 2005 team won the NFC. But they did split their first four games before going winning 11 in a row, so it’s not like that happened over night. Nonetheless, you do have the recipe in order, and it begins with a consistent balance of running and passing on offense, plus the defense playing up to its potential of shutting teams down.
This team does have quality depth, but it hit so fast and furious at the wide receiver position, it knocked everybody off stride. Hopefully, both Engram and Branch should be back by the Oct. 5 game at New York and a sense of normalcy returns. The good news is there are 15 regular season games remaining. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Scott
Mike,
My question deals with our offensive line depth. How has the overall health been? Can Floyd Womack stay healthy this season? He is such a valuable blocker when he's able to go. How are the young guys coming along? It seems we've found a good back up center in Steve Vallos.
Scott,
There doesn’t seem to be any shortage of depth on the offensive line at all, with execution of the starters the primary focus at the moment. Vallos did do a good job of stepping in for Chris Spencer at center and established himself as a legitimate center in the NFL. With Sean Locklear out the past two weeks, Ray Willis has proven to be eminently capable of playing right tackle at any time, and second-year guard Mansfield Wrotto continues to improve.
And as far as “Chop” goes, he seems pretty solid on his knees these days and his ability to play any of the four positions (besides center) makes him invaluable. Most of all, the key will be the execution by the starters as they move forward, with the hope that Locklear is back perhaps as soon as next week, and they stay healthy the remainder of the season. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Singh
Mike,
I’m not so much concerned about our defense and offense over the course of the season - they’ll continue to get better. But I am concerned about special teams. What are we doing to address this area of concern?
Singh,
There are special teams practices every day, films are studied and the positions played by particular players are singled out on a daily basis through computer programs. So to put it mildly, the entire landscape of the team – special teams included – is scoured over as much as possible.
A big part of the problem has continued to be transition of roster, which presumably will settle down here over the next week or two. Suffice to say the staff is paying as much attention to the details of special teams this week as any other portion of the team. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
With all the focus on how much the running game will be improved for the Seattle Seahawks, it will be the passing game around Pro Bowl quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, veteran wide receiver Nate Burleson and the young trio of Courtney Taylor, Logan Payne and Jordan Kent that figures to be the most fun to watch evolve.
Having just turned 27, Burleson is the veteran of five seasons – two with the Seahawks – who has to be the veteran on the field. Although Kent led all receivers with 11 catches during the preseason, to Payne’s five and Taylor’s four, neither Kent nor Payne has as regular season reception and Taylor caught five last season as a rookie.
Veterans Deion Branch (knee) and Bobby Engram (shoulder) are expected back with a few weeks, but there is no defined time table. A fourth youngster, the versatile Ben Obomanu, was slated to play a lot at the different receiver spots only to break his clavicle Friday night against Oakland, so he’s on the injured list for the season.
“This is all about opportunity,” Burleson said. “The young guys have proven during the preseason and training camp they can play. Now they get to show it in games. We’re all confident in them and it’s up to me to be the leader on the field. It’s an opportunity for me to make a name for myself at a completely different level. I know all three receiver positions in the offense now, I’m healthy and I know I’m capable of making big plays or small plays.
“When you’ve got Matt as your quarterback, you just have to be there and catch the ball.”
Hasselbeck understands the deal. Payne and Kent spent last year earning their stripes as rookies on the practice squad, while Taylor split his season bouncing back and forth. Hasselbeck, who turns 33 in a few weeks, was there as a second day draft choice in Green Bay … sitting and learning until he got his opportunity with the Seahawks.
He’s excited for them, if not nervous about the regular season opener at Buffalo this Sunday.
“Those guys have worked hard - I think they’re prepared,” Hasselbeck said. “Sometimes if you don’t know to be nervous, it’s even better. I don’t think it’s crossed their minds. I think those guys have done a great job preparing and being focused. They got a lot to think about. I’m sure that’s where their focus will be. It’s not something any of us can even think about. We just got to go out there and focus on playing football, making plays. That’s what I expect.”
The great thing about football is whatever nerves may be lingering at the start of the game it only takes one hit to eliminate them. The staff has shown so much confidence in the development of these youngsters, they eschewed drafting anyone, nor bringing in any veteran free agents.
Now it’s time for these guys to pay dividends.
“Oh yeah we’re ready,” Taylor said. “We’ve all worked hard and this is the dream all of us have been waiting for. Now it’s time just to go out, stay focused and make plays.”
From: Ryan
Mike,
I just wanna say, I read all your blogs. Now that all the teams throughout the league have cut their teams down to 53, do you think the Seahawks will be looking through that group of people for possible additions to our team? I heard Chad Jackson was released by the Patriots, do you think he would be a good fit here?
Ryan,
The Seahawks personnel staff is always scouring the waiver wires. In fact I hasten to say they knew most of the names that would be on it the way everyone is so plugged in around the league these days. But as president Tim Ruskell said last week, this year’s roster more than any before was about the difficulty in pairing down the roster as opposed to adding to it with specific needs.
They are very excited to see what Taylor, Kent and Payne will do with the opportunities. They know the offense and made plays throughout the preseason and training camp. Burleson is excited about being the big play guy, not to mention that Branch and Engram will be back before long. Jackson, or anybody else for that matter, wouldn’t be a factor for at least weeks – and maybe months – while trying to learn the offense. That’s not to say all players aren’t considered by the staff, but they are ready to go with what they’ve got. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Jake
Mike,
Are the Seahawks going to continue to use Nate Burleson as a kickoff/punt returner with the receiver corps nursing so many injuries?
Jake,
That’s a good question. It won’t be in the same manner as the past couple of years, that’s for sure. Josh Wilson will definitely be one of the kickoff returners, with rookie Justin Forsett very likely with Wilson. Forsett, and Burleson or Wilson will return the punts. Ben Obomanu was penciled in to return punts with Forsett before fracturing his clavicle Friday night. Jordan Kent could figure in on kickoff returns or punts too.
And just because the season begins this season doesn’t mean it won’t change. The returner specialists figure to be fluid, and Burleson is far too good at it not to play some kind of role, particularly once Deion Branch and Bobby Engram return from their injuries. But until then, it’s an awfully big risk. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Cody
Mike,
I want to start by saying go SEAHAWKS!!!! I believe we have a very good team and chance to get to the super bowl this year but with all the injuries to our wide receivers it just keeps getting worse and worse and now Ben Obomanu is out so I was thinking why not go after Koren Robinson I know he don't have a good rap in Seattle. However he knows the system which is hard to learn. That’s one reason why we have not gone after a veteran. Mike Holmgren drafted him and we know he likes him because when he left Holmgren gave Minnesota a good word for him and he has not been in trouble in a long time. What do you think about it?
Cody,
There is a commitment factor involved here and Robinson has had so many opportunities, not only from the Seahawks but the Vikings and Packers. This team is too far along to bring in a risk factor. Yes, Holmgren likes him and his teammates have always liked him as a guy to be around.
But this is all about performance, consistency and trust. The Seahawks are too far along with all the other receivers. Remember, Michael Bumpus showed big time in the preseason and in training camp … and he’s waiting for his opportunity from the practice squad. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Nathan
Mike,
I know that time and time again you have received questions about the running back situation for the Seahawks. I'm still a bit confused, so I was wondering if you could help me out. I know that Holmgren has made it very clear, that there will not be one starting back, but that the carries will be shared. My question is, who exactly is he referring to?
Are Maurice Morris and Julius Jones going to be the two main guys, with T.J. Duckett coming in spontaneously, or will all three backs share an even amount of carries for a triple-threat rushing attack (similar to the undefeated Dolphins team)?
Nathan,
The running game will be built around Morris and Jones according to Holmgren, but the infusion of Duckett will come during more than just short yardage situations too. In other words, nothing is set in stone. All of them will get opportunities, and if I’m reading the situation right, Holmgren will vacillate from just going with the “hot back” during a given game and the instinctive hunches he and offensive coordinator Gil Haskell have for particular plays and situations.
It’s all very new. The options and combinations are many and varied, which will bode well for the offense and make defensive game-planning more difficult for each team they play. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Eric
Mike,
First off let me start by saying GO HAWKS! Obviously there are many concerns regarding our receiving core, whether it be youth, injuries etc. I was wondering what would be the odds of the Hawks drafting a receiver with our first pick in next year’s draft. I ask this question because of the before mentioned reasons. Looking at the future of the team, in my opinion, the wide receiver situation should really be addressed. I mean with Deion Branch having knee problems, and Bobby Engram (who is the man) is certainly in the twilight of his career. Nate I believe can be a number one guy. Other than that Jordan Kent is the only that has really stepped up. Hopefully if we do we will come across some one like Joey Galloway. What do say you Mike?
Eric,
You’re offsides. We haven’t even had the opportunity to see what Taylor, Kent and Payne can do and you’re already drafting a wide receiver? These guys are talented, know the offense and are young. It’s why they didn’t draft a wide receiver this season. Why take a guy who will need a good year to learn the system when you already have (four, if you include Obomanu) talented young guys that know it?
I’m not saying they are all going to be stars or the answer for the Seahawks over the next 6-7 years, but we don’t know how they will respond, so let’s take a deep breath and watch how this all shakes out. Because of this transition at the skill positions (running back too), the operation of the offense will be interesting to watch unfold for Hasselbeck. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Jon
Mike,
I don't understand why people keep suggesting that the Seahawks need to bring in a proven wide receiver like Anquan Boldin or Joe Horn. Nate Burleson has got this offense down now and is ready to explode, Bobby Engram, when healthy, is as consistent as any wide out in the league, Deion Branch is a game-breaker, and the young guys look really good. If anything they have an over-abundance of talented receiver.
The biggest question mark, after watching the last couple of seasons and Monday night's game against the Chargers, is the Seahawks run-defense. What are our options if we don't have any healthy run-stoppers?
Jon,
I could have used you to answer the multitude of questions that keep piling on about the receivers. I’m always flabbergasted by the number of fans that are ready to believe somebody else can just stroll right into this offense and contribute – particularly in the passing game. It isn’t like going into somebody’s backyard and going deep. The routes in Holmgren’s playbook are about as precise as anything anyone does in the NFL – depth and timing are what this passing attack is all about.
As for the run defense, it’s tough to get a handle on what was going on throughout the preseason because we never really got to see the No. 1 defense play for any measurable amount of time. Suffice to say Brandon Mebane, Rocky Bernard, Craig Terrill, Howard Green and rookie Red Bryant are being counted on to keep blockers off the linebackers so they can make plays. I wouldn’t get too concerned over what was seen in the preseason because unlike a lot of teams, the Seahawks don’t game plan on either side of the football. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Chris
Mike,
A life long Hawks fan here - I just wanted to get an insider's perspective on these young wide receivers and how much of an obstacle they will face during the regular season of not having very much playing time with Matt Hasselbeck. It is well documented that this offensive scheme, passing mostly, relies so much on timing and reading the defensive package in front of them - do you foresee this being a big issue? Thanks Mike - doing a great job - GO HAWKS
Chris,
Yes, it’s timing, but they have thrown so many balls in practice that it will come in games. Granted, it won’t be the same as it is between Hasselbeck and Bobby Engram – few combinations in the NFL are as tight as those two. But it will come. It may take a little time for the young guys to get over their jitters, but the timing is built-in from the offseason work everybody did.
And before you know it, Engram and Branch will be back, so hang in there. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Wrecker
Mike,
All of this Justin Forsett and David Hawthorne talk is great I believe Hawthorne is in fact a middle linebacker that can step along Julian Peterson and Leroy Hill if Lofa Tatupu gets injured. Meanwhile, he can Forsett can be factors on special teams. But my eye is on the biggest surprise of the preseason, Jordan Kent. Once this kid gets a few regular season games under his belt we might have a Marques Colston on our hands and that would be great Speed and height with decent hands … he lost a could of deep ones preseason game 2, but for a kid who has played so little, he has an exciting future.
Wrecker,
The scouts that were all over those guys deserve the credit. Forsett was one of those guys that was overlooked every year not only because of his size because of the huge shadow cast by Marshawn Lynch at Cal. But every year Lynch got hurt, Forsett gobbled up huge chunks of yardage and was productive in helping the Bears win. As for Hawthorne, scouts just ignored him because of his size, too, Good thing because the Seahawks, with the exception of Julian Peterson, have thrived on small, fast linebackers. He fits just right.
Kent figures to be about a year ahead of schedule considering his lack of experience, but he’s very bright and committed, with exceptional natural talent. We’ll find out soon enough if he’s ready to be productive right away with the opportunity laid in front of him at the moment. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Jakob
Mike,
Watching the first three games of the preseason Hawks fans have many things to be excited about. But, the one thing that's most exciting to me is the play of the offensive line. All of our backs have had pretty good plays during these games and have shown good physical play and getting yards after initial contact.
But it seems like almost every good run has been a product of our offensive lines blocking – huge holes, linemen down field, and smart play. It seems like the addition of Mike Solari and Mike DeBord might be the most important piece to the 2008 Seahawks. There have been some good moments and players during this preseason but my preseason MVP is our offensive line. Thanks.
Jakob,
That was the goal when the hires were made. The addition of Mike Wahle at left guard not only helps physically, but he brings a mentality onto the field and into the locker room and weight room that helps leadership-wise from the loss of other veterans the past few years. But you’re right about the change. Solari is an throw-back line coach who likes to utilize the athletic ability of his linemen. And if they get out and run, it enhances the possibility of 12, 15 and 20-yard gains.
Nonetheless, we still have to see it consistently in the regular season for the team to be successful, and the need is there for Chris Spencer to be healthy and be the center fulltime for the line to reach its full potential this season. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
Now comes the tough part.
In the wake of altering the roster to the maximum of 75 players on Tuesday, the Seahawks must slice the roster to 53 on Saturday, and then can bring back eight players for the practice squad on Sunday. Actually, they are at 76, including Samuel Gutekunst, the German offensive lineman representing the NFL’s international program.
Released on Tuesday were former University of Washington cornerback Omare Lowe, and wide receiver Joel Filani. Placed on the physical unable to perform list was second-year linebacker Will Herring, while rookie tackle Will Robinson and rookie snapper Tyler Schmitt are on injured reserve for the season.
That’s sets up the final preseason game Friday night with the Oakland Raiders as the final showdown for a number of roster spots that have yet to be decided. The toughest ones will come at wide receiver, running back and at defensive line.
Generally speaking coach Mike Holmgren likes to keep a combination of 11 between the offensive backfield and wide receiver. But with wide receivers Deion Branch and Bobby Engram expected back no later than early October, that will most likely take up two of the roster spots, and leaves the staff with the dilemma of deciding between Ben Obomanu, Courtney Taylor, Logan Payne, Michael Bumpus, and rapidly developing Jordan Kent, who has put up the most impressive numbers of all during the preseason.
In the backfield, Mo Morris, Julius Jones and fullback Leonard Weaver, are flanked by T.J. Duckett – coming off an impressive stint late in Monday’s 18-17 loss at San Diego – fullbacks Owen Schmitt and David Kirtman, plus tough rookie running back Justin Forsett. Special teams play will be significant factor for Schmitt and Forsett.
On the defensive line, starting at tackle, there are starters Rocky Bernard and Brandon Mebane, with rookie Red Bryant, and veterans Craig Terrill, Howard Green and Larry Tripplett, who has been injured much of the preseason. The defensive ends are Patrick Kerney, Darryl Tapp and top draft choice Lawrence Jackson, while a great battle has taken shape between 2007 fourth-round pick Baraka Atkins and veteran Jason Babin.
There are other mini-battles that are still playing out, and generally speaking one game isn’t the difference. But Friday night against the Raiders, with starters expected to play sparingly if at all, very well could be the difference between making the team and seeking employment Monday morning.
From: Dave
Mike,
I realize that Julius Jones was brought to Seattle to likely start at tailback and of course Mo Morris certainly has earned his chance to be the guy. And has looked very good this preseason. However Justin Forsett has shown some really special ability and excited the crowd in the first two preseason games. What are the chances of him surprising everyone and sneaking in at that starting tailback spot? He has appeared to bring a special toughness, quickness and outright speed to the position that it makes you wonder what kind of running game we would have with him back there?
Dave,
Just about everything you suggested in the beginning of the e-mail is right on the money. Jones was brought here to prove he can be an every-down back. Morris performed well last season and has been the given the opportunity to prove he’s the guy. But coach Mike Holmgren has said time and again, they will share the duties so both of them will be fresh throughout the games and presumably the season.
Forsett, the 5-8, 195-pound seventh round draft choice from Cal, has been the hit of training camp with his toughness and performance. And he is leading the team in rushing by a lot going into the third game. But what has to be taken into consideration is that he has been playing running back in the second half of games. It doesn’t minimize what he’s accomplished as much as force everybody to maintain some perspective. Down the road, he could very well prove to be an exceptional running back. Right now, his ticket to making the team will be on special teams. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Jeff
Mike,
Aside from all of the injuries, I'm more concerned with how our special teams have played in the first two preseason games. Our coverage has been lackluster at best. With the key losses of Niko Koutouvides and Kevin Bentley in the offseason, do you think our special teams are in for a long season? I sure hope they improve in the coming weeks. What is your take? Thanks.
Jeff,
My perspective has always been the same about the preseason in professional sports, whether we’re talking about football, basketball, baseball or hockey – all that really matters are the injuries and the surprise player or two who comes out of nowhere to earn a spot on the roster. That’s exactly how I feel about what’s been going on with special teams in the first two games with the Seahawks.
They need to get everybody healthy, which also has a dramatic effect on who will be playing special teams during the preseason. This is the most difficult time of the year for coach Bruce DeHaven. Not only does he have to deal with replacing injured players who will be on special teams, he has to gauge what the chances are of certain guys making the team or not as he’s assembling his units. You hope there aren’t holes, but it isn’t likely the special teams will settle down for good until the regular season gets going. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Scott
Mike,
Anquan Boldin has stated his desire to leave Arizona and be traded if possible. Any chance Seattle could pick him up? I think he'd have a great rapport with Matt Hasselbeck. With Bobby Engram, Deion Branch, and Nate Burleson it'd be a crazy wide receiver corps. Do the Seahawks have a chance of obtaining him? How well do you think he'd jell with the Seahawk's offensive style if they could acquire him in a trade? Thanks.
Scott,
Normally I don’t answer questions about potential trades because one little whisper or rumor gets taken completely out of context and discussions take place all the time with nothing happening. But so many different people asked the same question, so I’ll address it.
A major deal like that just doesn’t happen because it makes sense for one team, and Boldin is locked into his contract whether he likes it or not. The Seahawks really like their young receiving crew of Courtney Taylor, Ben Obomanu, Logan Payne and Jordan Kent, and you can add Michael Bumpus to that list too. It’s why they didn’t draft a receiver in April. Is Boldin more accomplished than them? Of course he is, but are the Seahawks going to trade a No. 1 pick as has been suggested or more? Is that enough from the Cardinals perspective? Seahawks president Tim Ruskell is as ready and willing to deal as any executive in the league when it comes to improve the team – he proved that dealing a No. 1 pick for Branch two years ago. But he also is loath to give up top draft choices. No deal is impossible, but highly improbable is where this rumor is and will probably remain. Meanwhile, the youngsters will sort themselves out Engram and Branch will continue to get healthy in the weeks to come. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Don
Mike,
It looks like Charlie Frye needs to work more on his pocket presence. While watching him play It seemed he was sliding the wrong way to avoid the pressure and still be able to look for the receiver. Maybe he just needs to play more in this system, but he still can't be making forced throws out of the end zone to the other team like he did. He does throw a nice deep ball.
Don,
It was in an interesting debut by Frye, and he will continue to get time in the final preseason game. He was erratic for a lot of reasons. It was his first full game in a year, in a system he has had to learn without playing in games. Keep in mind it was a preseason game with an inordinate amount players being shuttled in and out. That meant pass protection was a particularly difficult issue, and timing with receivers varied with so many different guys in and out.
Those are excuses, just reasons for the uneven performance. He has worked hard on his release and gaining a comfort zone in the offense with quarterbacks coach Bill Lazor. The most important thing we have to watch for is improvement each week and the mistakes being minimized. He’s without question an NFL quarterback, and now he has to prove he’s capable of being solid enough to allow the staff to utilize Seneca Wallace’s versatility on the field without fear of losing a very strong backup quarterback. Thanks for writing. Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Wade
Mike,
I know everyone says they are excited about our young receivers, but what are the chances we pick up another proven receiver? I saw that Joe Horn got released by the Falcons, Is there a chance we might go after someone like that?
Wade,
It’s never out of the question, but you have to keep in mind this is a very difficult offensive system to learn. Horn is 36 years old and would be starting from scratch. Meanwhile, all of these young receivers are competing and nobody has played out of contention for a roster spot. That’s not to say they wouldn’t consider Horn, don’t ever rule anything out.
But in the big picture, he wouldn’t be comfortable or effective until Branch and Engram return, so that makes it a difficult move to justify with finals cuts coming in a week. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Tim
Mike,
If we fans get a say so on whom the Seahawk keep my vote is for Justin Forsett and David Hawthorne. Both of those guys got SMACKS! Who says you have to get high draft choices to get quality players, we'll take the ones with HEART!
Tim,
No doubt, their ‘smacks’ and ‘heart,’ as you put it, have everything to do with why the Seahawks nailed these guys down in the first place. Not coincidentally, they were both overlooked because of their measurables, also known as size and speed (among other physical attributes) for their respective positions. The Seahawks obviously use those variables to a certain extent.
More importantly, they emphasize how they look on film, in person and their character traits on and off the field. That’s the kind of scouting work that allows them to get free agents like those two this year or others like Leonard Weaver, C.J. Wallace and Logan Payne as free agent rookies. That will make a big difference in the long-term future of this organization. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Johnna
Mike,
I grew up just outside of Seattle and I'm an avid Seahawks fan, but I now live in West Virginia and proudly cheer on the Mountaineers! My favorite Mountaineer is, was and always will be Owen Schmitt so you can understand my overwhelming joy and elation to see that the Seahawks drafted and signed him. There was a phrase here in WV that we heard a lot last season and that was “Schmitt Happens.” His work ethic, dedication and pure love of the game is second to none!
Let me just say first hand to those who might not have seen much Mountaineer football, it doesn't matter if you put him on offense, defense or special teams Schmitt can get the job done! He will make a great asset to the Seahawks for years to come! I'm so excited for this season I can't stand it! Go Hawks!
Johnna,
All of those factors you mentioned are precisely why the Seahawks drafted Schmitt. His toughness and versatility have shown much more during training camp and the preseason than during minicamp when every practice was in shorts with no pads. He’s clearly a “gamer,” and the kind of player coaches adore because he brings the same approach
every time he steps on the field. Some of the more physically gifted players in this league have bad games and they don’t contribute.
Schmitt is the kind of guy who will always make an impact because it isn’t about his natural tools which may not be sharp on a particular day. It’s all about leaving it out on the field. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Alan
Many thanks to Seahawks.com – it’s a great way to keep up on the inside news for us that have had to move away from our hometown team. I would like to say that this year’s team shows the more potential than any I think I have seen and I have been a fan since the initial season. Justin Forsett has made a big impression along with “The Heater” (David Hawthorne) and the young receivers. I don't envy the coaching staff any of the decisions they will have to make regarding cuts, but if you have to be in a pickle this is not a bad one to be in. Thanks again and keep the news coming.
Alan,
This has been a very special process to watch up close and the consistent improvement of the players, the focus of the coaches toward development and the personnel department for their decision-making on players at both the collegiate and professional level. It’s all about the consistency of approach that starts at the top of the organization and trickles down.
This is the Seahawks family, and it always includes the fan, which may be the No. 1 thing that will Mike Holmgren will take away in his last season as coach – his role in rekindling the love affair between the Seahawks and their fans. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: James
Mike,
I am very happy with the acquisitions of Mike Solari and Mike DeBord. They've done a fantastic job with our line. My question is how long do you expect them to remain with the Seahawks? Do assistant coaches sign contracts? These are great assistants and I would like them to remain with the Seahawks for as long as possible.
James,
It’s great to hear from fans who have already noticed the difference already because all it takes is one day of watching practice to grasp how much teaching is going on, and that’s not taking into account what the players are getting out of films and in their meetings. Some people may call it cliché when coaches talk about being teachers. But that’s how teams attain their potential.
To be sure, it’s always up to the players to perform in the end. But is also comes down to the coaches providing clarity and motivation to the players. Once that is attained, it allows the players to reach their peak performance level. Because of what Solari and DeBord have brought to the table, the line is certainly headed in that direction. And if they can stay healthy, it will make the entire team better. It allows the offense to be more versatile – establishing the running game to augment the passing game and control the clock. That, in turn, allows the defense to stay fresh, and consistency on both sides of the football that produce more wins home and away. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
The Seahawks play host to the Chicago Bears Saturday night in the second preseason game, but what was on everybody’s mind as the weekend came was bidding adieu to the offices and practice facility in Kirkland.
After 22 years of existence in the shadow of Northwest University, the Seahawks entire operation will open shop in the Virginia Mason Athletic Center on the banks of Lake Washington in Renton Monday.
Memories abound for those who remember the move from Carillon Point in 1986, the renovation that took place in the 1990s in Kirkland, and the exponential growth of the organization that rendered the Kirkland facility obsolete.
“There are too many (memories),” Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren said. “Any time you move from a smaller place into a bigger place, and I did this once before in San Francisco. In a building like this one, you see each other every day. It really creates a family-type of feeling with your support staff, the secretaries, the players … when you go to a much larger building, you have to work at that, and I think it’s important. I think you have to work at it, because you can’t just walk next door now, you might be on a different floor. It’s not quite as easy.
“But I think that feeling [in] an organization, once you have that feeling, you can’t lose that feeling. So I’m going to be talking a little bit about that to the team and to my staff and things like that in my last year, because I think it’s important. Those are the things that I think about when we’re moving into our new place.”
Before the move and the first official practice on Monday, there is the not so small matter of the Bears at Qwest Field. Each game grows in importance for the guys on the bubble to make the team, and they must perform. It’s at the point of camp where injuries aren’t going to be excuses if they’re trying to make the cut. The first cut down date is minor, only four must go from the 80-man roster by Aug. 26 – a week from Tuesday to put it into perspective. More pertinent, it’s only a little more than two weeks to the Aug. 31.
It’s not time to rest on the laurels of last week’s 34-17 win at Minnesota.
“Well I expect the guys that played well to continue to improve,” Holmgren said. “Our goal at training camp, whether you’re talking about practice or certainly the games, is to get better every day. (If) you’re not running in place, you’re getting better. So if they played pretty well, I was happy for them in the first game, but they can’t take a deep breath and think they’ve arrived. They’ve got to play better this week. And for the guys that struggled just a little bit, they have to know that they’re running out of time. And we’re going to have to make some decisions in the next couple weeks and they’ve got to show us (they belong here).”
It also provides some extra time to breathe for the starters such as quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, trying to get some of the physical kinks out before the regular season, such as his stiff back. Expect Charlie Frye to see a lot of action at quarterback against the Bears, along with Seneca Wallace. This is one of the key times to see how far Frye has come, so it could possibly open up other position possibilities for Wallace.
“It certainly is not an open competition here,” said Holmgren, stating the obvious for a reason. “Matt’s number one, Seneca is two, and Charlie is three. But, our thing, where we’re experimenting and looking, is to feel enough confidence in Charlie’s ability to do the job that I can use Seneca in other things. So it’s not really competition, but we’re juggling things to maybe look at something else, and that’s Seneca playing a little bit more at another position.”
Regardless, it will be interesting.
On to the e-mail of the week:
From: Clark
Mike,
Julius Jones has been one of the off-season's biggest question marks for the Hawks and I am anxious to see him start this Saturday. How well is he fitting into Mike Holmgren's system so far in camp? Do you think he can be a Brian Westbrook-type of player in this West Coast Offense-style system?"
Clark,
He has looked terrific in camp. Not only does he hit the line of scrimmage hard and with quick cutting ability, but he explodes on contact. In addition to showing that, he has very soft hands and attacks blitzing linebackers when blocking.
So far he’s been everything that he was billed coming out of Notre Dame and his first couple years in Dallas, now we’ll get a chance to see him play with a chip on his shoulder to prove all the naysayers wrong. Sometimes a change of scenery can work wonders with an athlete. Let’s reserve judgment about comparing him to Westbrook, but he certainly is talented and versatile. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Matt
Mike,
Ever since we got Julius Jones all I’ve been hearing is how great he is. But in the game against the Vikings it was Mo Morris and the seventh round pick Justin Forsett who were great. If you look at the replays and the stats, if you look at the replays and the stats Jones couldn’t do anything. In my eyes the one who should get the starting spot is Morris. He’s been here a long time and he’s proven that he can run the ball consistently. The No. 2 spot should go to Forsett.
Matt,
One preseason game isn’t an indicator of what Jones is capable of doing. I’ve been watching him every day in practice and he’s played extremely well. Morris had a great first quarter against the Vikings with the first team offense, Forsett ran hard in the second half against the Vikings second and third team defense. That’s not to denigrate what either accomplished, and they have been very good throughout camp. But it’s impossible to have a complete picture of Jones after watching one preseason game.
You’ll get a better idea of how talented he is as the preseason and regular season get underway progress. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Brian
Mike,
I was REALLY impressed with David Hawthorne's performance in the 1st preseason game against Minnesota. Granted, Adrian Peterson was not in the game, but it looked like all the linebackers - starters D.D. Lewis and Lance Laury included - were ready to hurt people. Congrats to Howard Green on a great game as well! GO SEA-FENSE! Now then, my question has to do with Full Backs: Who is most likely to back-up Leonard Weaver at fullback? How has David Kirtman progressed, and can his skill match the size and power of rookie Owen Schmitt?
Brian
You were not alone in being impressed with Hawthorne. Everybody knows about this rookie middle linebacker from TCU now … if they didn’t before. He played this past season as a graduate student, and obviously the Seahawks were thrilled to reel him in after the draft. And you’re right, the second group of Hawthorn, Lewis and Laury are into hitting every bit as much as the Pro Bowl-caliber trio of Lofa Tatupu, Julian Peterson and Leroy Hill. They are going to be fun to watch all season.
Regarding the backup for Weav, that is quite the contest right now. Kirtman has come a long way as far as catching the ball, and he’s puffed out physically about 15 pounds worth of muscle to enhance his blocking and special teams play. Schmitt has really good natural fullback skills – blocking and catching the ball – and he’s a great hitter on special teams as well. There are so many contingencies with regard to numbers considering T.J. Duckett can play fullback, and Justin Forsett has made a huge push to be included. The question is how many backs can they keep when two receiver spots will be taken by Engram and Branch? Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Chip
Mike,
With Bobby Engram and Deion Branch out to kick off the season, do you think that Seneca Wallace will be used at wide receiver Is Charlie Frye doing well enough that he could fill in at the backup and allow Seneca to make that move?
Chip,
Frye has progressed a long way in the offense and Holmgren talked a lot about how they’re working on his mechanics to enhance the velocity of his throws, so this is quite a task he has in front of him this preseason. We’ll find out a lot about him in the second and fourth games of preseason. Those two games, plus practice, will go a long way toward telling the future of Frye with the Seahawks.
The coaching staff would love to have Wallace at their disposal to return kicks and play wide receiver, but he has looked outstanding at quarterback, and the concern of him getting hurt playing different positions is very real and risky in the big picture. Nonetheless, Frye is an experienced quarterback, is very bright and knows the system, so it should allow for a little flexibility. We’ll know more over the next few weeks. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Steven
Mike,
My question is why don’t the Seahawks let Matt Hasselbeck throw the ball more Hasselbeck is a outstanding quarterback who is very underrated and will be until he has a outstanding year. So why don’t the Hawks like last year put the team on Hasselbeck’s shoulders and let him lead us to the Super Bowl. If I remember right, that playoff game against the Redskins when Shaun Alexander got hurt, Hasselbeck is the one who stepped up and won that game for the Hawks and last season when the running game fell apart, Hasselbeck is the one Holmgren felt would win him the games.
Steven,
Hasselbeck had the best statistical season of his career last season, and the Seahawks didn’t go any further than they did in 2006, so it really put into perspective that the offense is most effective when there is balance. Hasselbeck will tell you that himself. If he’s throwing all the time, it opens the door for the defense to just tee-off on the offensive line and that doesn’t benefit anybody.
He is a super quarterback and everybody knows it. He steps up his game when necessary, and runs a great two-minute offense. But the intention this season is to step-up the running game so defenses will have a lot more to focus on when they play the Seahawks this season, including backs that catch the ball very well too. None of that is a knock on Hasselbeck, just ways to help him and keep him healthy. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Ryan
Mike,
Now with Engram out for 6-8 weeks and Branch still on the mend. Who is being penciled in at the starting flanker spot? Does Courtney Taylor or Jordan Kent have what it takes to seize the opportunity? Or will we try to trade for a veteran like Joe Horn or look into
Terry Glenn?
Ryan,
Right now, it seems Taylor is the leader in the clubhouse, but that is subject to change as Holmgren puts it because Kent, Obomanu, Payne and Bumpus have all made a case for themselves. And when you consider they’re going to have to carry Branch and Engram on the 53-man because of their anticipated availability early in the regular season, they are limited with what they will do. Why add another aging receiver when the staff actually likes all of the young guys, particularly with a complicated system to learn such as Holmgren’s?
The youngsters are all talented and improving, so to lose one or multiple young receivers to go after someone near the end of his career is a gamble that doesn’t have a lot of upside to it. So my guess is they’ll stand pat unless it’s another young receiver they like and comes free. There aren’t any guarantees at this point, though. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Brandon
Mike,
The Seahawks are as deep as they have ever been at almost every position. With that, are they planning to keep two punters and two kickers on the roster to start the season and be forced to let some of those talented players go? Also, with young talent coming into its own on the offensive line, could this be the end of the road as a Hawk for Floyd Womack if he gets injured again? He is a versatile and has great “character”, but rarely can be depended on because of health issues.
Brandon,
Yes, they are deep, and I wouldn’t worry about keeping two punters and kickers. In a lot of ways with the 80-man roster, that’s a stretch keeping four instead of two during camp. But they drafted Brandon Coutu to push Olindo Mare, and they’re having a great battle. And when Ryan Plackemeier got hurt, they brought in Reggie Hodges, who has responded far better than anyone anticipated. So what we really have here is a great competition going at both spots. But two of the four won’t be on the active roster.
As for the offensive line, Womack needs to be healthy to stick around. Steve Vallos has enhanced his value exponentially by learning center as well as being a guard with starting center Chris Spencer still on the mend. Meanwhile, Ray Willis also can play guard and tackle. Mansfield Wrotto is a guard, who has also learned center, and young tackle Kyle Williams has improved a lot. So the competition from young linemen is as strong as it has ever been. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Sue
Mike,
With Spencer missing all this time taking snaps during the pre-season - and his principle difficulty being lack of experience recognizing the defenses and making appropriate calls for the line - why can't a more experienced guy like Walter Jones make the calls? I know that's not the traditional way to run things but, if Chris is slow making calls and Vallos, as Matt commented, is likewise slow (even when the Viking defense was very basic according to their coach), why risk making mistakes on the line?
I know they looked pretty good in the first preseason game - Vallos really came up big, eh?!!! Wow! - and that both Chris and Steve will continue to grow into the position, but Walt has seen everything (probably Mike Wahle as well) and it just seems you risk less and protect Matt better - at least for now - by letting a more experienced guy make the call while the young guys learn. What do you think?
Sue,
Actually, Vallos is getting better all the time, although Hasselbeck certainly kept it simple for him. Really, it has to be the center or the quarterback, although they all talk on the line – particularly to the guys next to them. But Walt couldn’t make a call for Rob Sims at right guard or Sean Locklear at right tackle, just as Locklear couldn’t make calls for Wahle or Jones. It’s just too far down the line, particularly if somebody is blitzing from the outside – it can be 8-10 yards away from where a guy on the opposite side is lining up. He’d never seen him and could be distracted from noticing a change from his outside if he’s looking at the other side of the line.
So that’s why it’s always the quarterback or center because they have the best vantage point. Hasselbeck is one of the brightest quarterbacks around, so he’s eminently capable of helping … but the center has to do it and his buddies have to be prepared to help point things out to each other. It also helps immensely that new offensive line coach Mike Solari and his assistant Mike DeBord are going over the top to explain every look these guys will get on a daily basis. They’re coming along, it’s just a bit of a hike from the exceptional and experienced line they had. It’s the inevitability of change through age. Now is the time they gain experience. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Don
Mike,
I was impressed with our receivers in the first preseason game, but I thought Justin Forsett stole the show. I just hope management and coaches don't let the money spent on the other running backs cloud their judgment if Forsett keeps playing like this. Don't forget Leonard Weaver can play tailback on short yardage and Owen Schmitt can block for him. There are going to be some extremely tough cuts after the last preseason game, especially with (Washington Redskins coach) Jim Zorn ready to sign our castoffs.
Don,
The whole concept of cutting this team down at wide receiver and running back is getting tougher by the day. The play of Forsett at running back, the improvement Schmitt, and Bumpus showing strong at wide receiver compounds the deal. It’s a tribute to the scouting department, and that results with a headache for the staff trying to get the numbers to match up.
Forsett is one tough kid, who brings the focus and attitude on every play. That’s not to say the others don’t, but it’s also the case of an undersized player motivated to an entirely different level. The strength of a guy who is 5-foot-8 is extraordinary. The next few weeks will prove to be a fascinating exercise in personnel juggling. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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By Mike Kahn
Seahawks Insider
MINNEAPOLIS - Following Friday’s win at the Vikings, the Chicago Bears come to Qwest Field this Saturday for the preseason home opener. The third game is Aug. 25, a Monday Night Football national telecast at San Diego against the Chargers. And the preseason is wrapped up Aug. 29 at Qwest against the Oakland Raiders.
So it’s all beginning, this 2008 NFL season … five months until the regular season ends, and hopefully that will take us into a long January for the Seahawks, and Feb. 1 to Raymond James Stadium for Super Bowl XLIII against some very lucky team from the AFC …
Thankfully, this bound-to-be-bumpy ride is already underway.
Now on to the e-mail of the week:
From: William
Mike,
With Chris Gray retiring do you think the Seahawks will go out and sign another lineman? And do will first round draft pick Lawrence Jackson be a starter or will be a situational pass rusher.
William,
The Seahawks did sign center Ben Claxton for depth at center, and Tim Ruskell’s personnel department is always active, but they have drafted so many offensive linemen over the past four drafts still on the roster (Chris Spencer, Ray Willis, Rob Sims, Mansfield Wrotto and Steve Vallos), that this is an opportunity to really enhance the development of this young group under the guidance of offensive line coach Mike Solari and assistant Mike DeBord. Nonetheless, it would not be surprising to see an addition in the final weekend after all the cuts are made.
As far as Jackson’s status goes, it’s difficult to tell exactly what they have in mind when it comes to starters. But whether he starts or not, he will play a lot on the edge and inside. His level of knowledge and instincts are much more mature than the average rookie and he’ll be a significant factor as line coach Dwaine Board rotates his players to keep them fresh. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Nate
Mike,
The season is so close I swear I can taste it!! I'm like a little kid at Christmas - I can't sleep, I can't eat.... OK, well, I CAN eat, but you get the point! Thank you, Mike, for feeding us little morsels during the off season and keeping that football monster in all of us satisfied!! I am perhaps more excited to watch this rookie class during the preseason than any other class since I first became a fan at 6 years old in 1984!!
So here are my questions; how do you honestly see this wide receiver situation working out? Which 3 of the 4 young guys do you see making the squad? I'm a big fan of Justin Forsett - if he just explodes in the preseason, do you think he'll be given a shot in the regular season at running back even though they brought in T.J. Duckett and Julius Jones? It seems like the ever-changing and all-important line took another hit with the retirement of Chris Gray (whom we will ALL sorely miss!!!!!), I know Chris Spencer is already the starter, but do you think he is ready to be the full time guy, and does he have the same locker room presence as Gray does? Thanks again, Mike!!
Nate,
Well now, where to begin … let’s start the receivers. Ben Obomanu and Courtney Taylor have really stepped up their games over the past week. And the cracked rib of Logan Payne does set him back – despite the fact he’s still working very hard, although not in live practice. It will be interesting to see how long he is out. To be sure Jordan Kent has improved the most dramatically of the group, but he also had the furthest to go. The fear is, of course, that whoever goes to the practice squad is vulnerable to be signed to another team’s 53-man roster. There’s still plenty of time to see if they separate more.
Forsett has been all the buzz the past 10 days, but it’s hard to figure out how he can make the 53-man roster. Jones and Mo Morris are the halfbacks, and Duckett is a hybrid. And Leonard Weaver is the starting fullback, with David Kirtman and rookie Owen Schmitt battling it out at backup fullback. Holmgren said he almost always goes with 11 with a combination of backs and receivers, and this could be the toughest call yet. As for Spencer, this will be his third year as a starter, and yes he’s ready to be the starter. He’s a good locker room guy too. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike.
From: Dan
Mike,
Ok, I am excited that we have some running back that hit the hole hard. I am really hoping that Jones' ability to hit holes quickly will set the Hawks up with a lot of 2nd-and-6 and 3rd-and-2s. Also, I remember Weaver making some big runs during some of the preseason games last year. Do you think that the quicker fullbacks available this year will result in the Hawks using the fullbacks more in the running game?
Dan,
You are right about the ability of Jones to hit the hole quickly and the impact it should have. It should be apparent fairly quickly that the running game will make more of an impact this season. Spencer needs to get back on his feet and get in the middle of the offensive line for it to truly progress, but Steve Vallos has grown dramatically with all the reps and attention he has received. But that position will be paramount for their success.
As for Weaver and certainly Duckett on occasion, there is a lot of speed with those power backs, and particularly Weaver is an exceptional receiver. This will be very interesting to see how they utilize their potential in the offense. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Ryan
Mike,
My question is in regard to Deion Branch... I hear so much chatter about his kind of injury, its difficult to separate fact from fiction. I guess the best way to sum it up is; what can we expect from Branch when the team gives him the green light to get back on the field? Will he be able to jump right back in the starting line up and perform at the level he did before, thus moving Bobby Engram back to the slot? Or will he be slower or less sharp when he returns? Basically, will he have a chance to be a quality receiver for us this season or will the nature of his injury not let him be 100% until sometime next season?
Ryan,
It’s impossible to know how Branch’s body will react once he’s back on the field. The rule of thumb with ACL surgery tends to be nine months, which will take us to October since his surgery. And the overall recovery back to previous speed, if ever met, usually takes until the next year. However, Branch has worked at an extraordinary pace, showing great strides in regaining his speed, straight ahead – and even more surprisingly – laterally.
Holmgren keeps saying the hope is he’ll be ready for the opening game, but that’s really hard to fathom. When he does come back, though, the expectation is he’ll return to the starting flanker spot, with Engram returning to the slot. It’s just too early to know just when that will be. And yet, we’re all waiting with baited breath. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Fido
Mike,
I read that there is a German player on the roster, offensive lineman Samuel Gutekunst. Is there any chance that he will make the practice squad? Greetings from Germany..
Fido,
Yes, he will make the practice squad considering the NFL has a provision with the players association regarding European players. Sixteen teams have players this season and another 16 will have one next season. Those clubs have the ability to keep an 81st player on the active roster during camp and ninth player on the practice squad once the regular season begins.
Gutekunst will make the practice squad under those circumstances. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Ben
Mike,
The development of Kelly Jennings into a legitimate starter brings a smile to my face as I think back to the ESPN analysts crying foul when we drafted him in 2006. It seems that Marcus Trufant and Jennings at the corners along with our "don't-get-beat-deep" safeties Brian Russell and Deon Grant, makes the reliability of the of our secondary the perfect compliment to our aggressive front seven.
However, injuries are a reality of the NFL. Do you think Josh Wilson has progressed with his cornerback duties enough to start at one of the outside positions if there are injuries and Jordan Babineaux is occupied at safety? Also, how do Kevin Hobbs and C.J. Wallace look incase they are asked to play a larger role in the starting rotation?
Ben,
Indeed, Jennings has advanced, and perhaps much more than anyone realizes. He is a superb cover corner, coming off an excellent first year as a starter, plus the experience and confidence gained should help him move up another notch and result with an even higher level of play.
As for depth, Wilson and Hobbs are battling it out for the third corner, and Babs remains the most versatile of the group. Wallace is on a continued growth cycle, so it really is a very solid top eight in that secondary. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
From: Dave
Mike,
I am just wondering what your take is on the NFC and what the Super Bowl chances are for the Hawks. I know that Dallas has the biggest hyped team in football.....though not my fave, so given our corners and their receivers....will we be able to beat them? By the way.....please let Julius Jones know that the fans are behind him as well as the rest of the team and that a NFC Championship over the Cowboys would make my year. That’s not to mention that a Super Bowl ring would look good with the blue jerseys. Have a great day! GO HAWKS....this is the year
Dave,
All things being equal injury-wise, if the Hawks can get to that point by the regular season, their chances are very good to win the NFC West, but to move beyond that they must play better on the road this season and work on retaining homefield advantage throughout the playoffs.
The bottom line is they are an above average road team and a great home team – 34-7 since the final game of 2002. So if they can get to 12 or more wins during the regular season, their chances of going to the NFC Championship game are enhanced enormously. And if they host the NFC Championship game, that enhances their chances of going to the Super Bowl exponentially. Thanks for writing.
Yours in sport,
Mike
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