BOB, GROZ AND TOM

Seahawks still have high hopes for Walter Thurmond

Jun 1, 2012, 5:36 PM | Updated: 6:26 pm

LISTEN:

Thurmonf-Cards-SL
Cornerback Walter Thurmond has missed 12 games in two seasons but he’s shown promise when healthy. (AP)

By Brady Henderson

The Seahawks saw Brandon Browner make the Pro Bowl last season while another cornerback, Richard Sherman, made four interceptions in 10 starts as a rookie.

They’ve spent sixth-round picks on Byron Maxwell and Jeremy Lane in the past two drafts and re-signed veterans Marcus Trufant and Roy Lewis.

It’s easy to forget about Walter Thurmond, who’s been slowed by injuries since the Seahawks took him in the fourth round of the 2010 draft. But according to defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, a guest on “Bob and Groz” earlier this week, Thurmond is still very much a part of the Seahawks’ plans.

AP11102315822
Thurmond

“We really are counting on him and we need him to stay healthy,” Bradley said.

That’s been the issue. Thurmond was limited in training camp as a rookie while recovering from a serious knee injury he suffered during his final season at Oregon. He missed two games in 2010 — one due to a concussion and another with a hamstring injury — and was again slowed during training camp last year while dealing with a high ankle sprain. His season ended after six games when he suffered a broken leg, an injury that could force him to start this season on the Physically Unable to Perform List.

But Thurmond, 24, has showed promise when healthy. Bradley recalled a game in 2010 when an injury to starter Kelly Jennings forced Thurmond to make his first career start against the Cardinals and Pro Bowl receiver Larry Fitzgerald. Thurmond helped limit Fitzgerald to three catches and 30 yards, more than 40 yards below his season average.

“He really jammed at the line of scrimmage really well … and was willing to just keep hanging in there and challenging,” coach Pete Carroll said of Thurmond’s performance a day later. “He’s got a great attitude about it and he physically has a knack for getting his hands on receivers.”

Thurmond made three starts last season, two of which came after Trufant went down with a back injury. In Seattle’s win over the Giants in Week 5, Thurmond made two tackles, was credited with two passes defended and forced a fumble in the fourth quarter that led to a game-tying field goal. He was also beat by Hakeem Nicks for a touchdown in that game.

Two weeks later, Thurmond’s season ended when he broke his leg after colliding with Earl Thomas while defending a deep pass against the Browns. He then suffered a setback in his recovery, which was likely one reason the Seahawks re-signed Trufant a month after releasing him. Trufant figures to be in the mix to be the fifth defensive back in the team’s nickel package, a role Thurmond should vie for once his injured leg is fully healed.

” … it didn’t heal properly and he’s at where he’s at right now,” Bradley said. “So hopefully by training camp we get him back and he can stay healthy because he’s very important in our plans.”

Bob, Groz and Tom

Seahawks RB Chris Carson...

Brent Stecker

Heaps: Bench Chris Carson? Seahawks need him running to make playoffs

Seahawks running back Chris Carson is struggling with fumbles, and it's imperative he corrects the issue, says Jake Heaps. "If this team is going to go to the playoffs, they have to have Chris Carson running the football."

5 years ago

The Groz at T-Mobile Park...

Brent Stecker

Watch: The Groz throws out the 1st pitch before Mariners-Astros game

Dave "The Groz" Grosby was honored by the Mariners on Tuesday night by throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. Check out video, photos and more from his big night here.

5 years ago

Bob, Groz and Tom...

SeattleSports.com Staff

Highlights from The Groz’s last show on Bob, Groz and Tom

Dave "The Groz" Grosby signed off as a full-time Seattle sports radio host Friday on Bob, Groz and Tom with visits from several notable names from his career.

5 years ago

The Groz...

SeattleSports.com Staff

Watch: Members of the Seattle sports media pay tribute to The Groz

Watch a special tribute to 710 ESPN Seattle's The Groz featuring messages from members of the Seattle sports media to commemorate his 29 years as a daily host in the market.

5 years ago

The Groz...

Brent Stecker

The Groz’s final show on Bob, Groz and Tom airs Friday at noon

Dave "The Groz" Grosby will finish up his 29-year career as a daily Seattle sports radio host on Friday from noon to 3 p.m. on 710 ESPN Seattle's Bob, Groz and Tom.

5 years ago

Mariners OF Kyle Lewis...

Brent Stecker

What sets Mariners OF Kyle Lewis apart from other prospects?

Mariners outfielder Kyle Lewis hit his fifth home run in eight games in the big leagues on Wednesday. ROOT Sports analyst Mike Blowers talked to Bob, Groz and Tom about Lewis and what makes him stand out.

5 years ago

Seahawks still have high hopes for Walter Thurmond