BRADY HENDERSON

Earl Thomas and Co. aren’t resting on their laurels

May 7, 2012, 12:15 AM | Updated: 9:21 am

By Brady Henderson

There should be no shortage of confidence in the Seahawks’ secondary, not after that group sent three members to the Pro Bowl in 2011.

But based on comments defensive coordinator Gus Bradley made during an appearance on “Brock and Salk” last week, that confidence won’t lead to complacency.

AP110102077853
Earl Thomas

“Some guys have said, ‘Well, they went to the Pro Bowl, and how is that going to affect them?'” Bradley said. “I know I got a text from Earl Thomas the other night, on Tuesday about 9:45 at night. He was trying to get the code for the DB room, to [watch] film. So right there that shows you their mentality. They’ll sneak in here to try to get on the JUGS machine in the indoor practice facility at night.

“They’re just driven that way. I think that’s why we’re so excited about this group.”

Thomas’ interception totals decreased from his rookie season to last year — he had five in 2010 and two in 2011 — but the improvement he showed elsewhere was enough for him to be named a Pro Bowl starter.

Strong safety Kam Chancellor, also in his second season, was added to the Pro Bowl roster as an injury replacement. So was cornerback Brandon Browner, who was technically not a rookie but was still playing in his first NFL season. Rookie cornerback Richard Sherman didn’t make the Pro Bowl, but played well once he became a starter mid-season. That trio combined for 14 interceptions and, along with Thomas, helped Seattle’s pass defense improve from 27th in 2010 to 11th last season.

“As Pete said when he first got here, he said, ‘Gus, we are going to build this team this defense with guys that love ball. And we’ve got to do that. That’s first and foremost,'” Bradley said. “And I think with guys like Kam and Earl and Browner, even though they’ve experienced some success, they just love football and that’s their No. 1 deal and they just want to be greatest they can be or the best they can be at their positions.”

Brock and Salk podcast

Brady Henderson

Rees Odhiambo, a 2016 third-round pick, will compete with Matt Tobin to start at left tackle. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Tom Cable: Rees Odhiambo, Matt Tobin are Seahawks’ preferred LT options

Tom Cable brought a bit of clarity to the Seahawks' plans at left tackle in the wake of George Fant's season-ending knee injury, saying Tuesday that Rees Odhiambo and newcomer Matt Tobin are the top two options.

7 years ago

Left tackle George Fant suffered an injury in the first half of Friday's preseason game. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Seahawks injury updates: George Fant set for surgery, K.J. Wright returns

Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Monday that left tackle George Fant is expected to be back by next season from the knee injury that will sideline him in 2017.

7 years ago

Matt Tobin, 27, started 21 games over seasons with the Eagles. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Seahawks acquire OL Matt Tobin in trade with Eagles

The Seahawks have acquired offensive tackle Matt Tobin in a trade with the Eagles, making another move to shore up their offensive line after losing left tackle George Fant for the season.

7 years ago

Luke Joeckel played left tackle for his first three NFL seasons. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Luke Joeckel? Rees Odhiambo? A look at the Seahawks’ LT options with George Fant out for the season

The Seahawks need a new plan at left tackle with George Fant out for the season. Moving Luke Joeckel there is one option, writes Brady Henderson.

7 years ago

Michael Bennett on Justin Britt standing by his side during the national anthem Friday night: “I ...

Brady Henderson

Justin Britt stands by Michael Bennett during national anthem: ‘A very emotional moment’

Seahawks center Justin Britt showed his support for teammate Michael Bennett Friday night, standing by him as Bennett remained seated during the national anthem.

7 years ago

Left tackle George Fant suffered an injury in the first half of Friday's preseason game. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Seahawks’ George Fant needs ACL surgery, likely out for season

The Seahawks' offensive line was dealt a massive blow with left tackle George Fant suffering a knee injury Friday night that will likely keep him out all season.

7 years ago

Earl Thomas and Co. aren’t resting on their laurels