Clayton: Seahawks training camp observations — Russell Wilson looks comfortable in new offense
Jul 29, 2021, 2:08 PM
Russell Wilson is off to a good start in the Seahawks' new offense. (Getty)
(Getty)
Training camp got off to a good start for the Seahawks on Wednesday.
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While it was disappointing second-round choice D’Wayne Eskridge started camp on the PUP list because of a lingering toe injury, the offense looked good. Let’s break down some of thoughts from camp.
• As always, Russell Wilson reported in great shape and was throwing the ball well. Wilson is the key to the season. The Seahawks need him to feel comfortable with new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron’s offense. So far it looks like a good fit.
• There appears to be more movement on offensive plays. Though we aren’t allowed to report specifics, this doesn’t look like a stagnant offense in which the running back gets the ball and runs ahead. It should be fun to watch in the preseason.
• Safety Jamal Adams didn’t practice but did participate in the walkthroughs. He had shoulder and finger surgeries so he wouldn’t be practicing anyway. Clearly, he will sit out some time until he gets a contract extension. I’m still predicting he’ll getting something done within a week.
• Left tackle Duane Brown also didn’t practice, but it’s not like a lot is needed. The early practices are non-padded. Plus, he’s also trying to get a contract extension.
• Defensive end Aldon Smith reported to the team in good shape. He was supposed to have a July 14 arraignment for the battery charge against him in Louisiana. That has been moved to Aug. 24, so he will have a camp and preseason to show what he can do for Seattle’s pass rush.
• Defensive end Carlos Dunlap looks good, and he’s so important. After he was traded to the Seahawks at midseason, he revitalized their pass rush. The team ended up with 46 sacks even though it looked like they would struggle to get 30 when the season started.
• Running back Chris Carson wasn’t around for the OTAs and didn’t go anything in minicamp, but he looked great Wednesday. The Seahawks need a 1,000-yard season from him.
• It was great news for the Seahawks that Pete Carroll thought running back Rashaad Penny looked the best he’s seen him since he was taken in the first round in 2018. If he’s healthy, the Seahawks have a good 1-2 punch in the backfield.
• The sleeper in the backfield is Alex Collins. He was cut a few years ago by the Seahawks, then went to Baltimore and almost had a 1,000-yard season. He’s a good inside runner. He was good in the offseason program and is off to a nice start in camp.
• The sleeper at wide receiver is Penny Hart. It wouldn’t be a surprise if he gets time as the No. 3 receiver.
• Finally, the Seahawks didn’t get receiver Dede Westbrook. He signed with the Minnesota Vikings. He got the minimum salary and a $137,500 signing bonus for a one-year deal at $1,127,500.
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