Seahawks Insider: Seattle welcomes back ‘a revived Earl Thomas’

RENTON – The void left by Earl Thomas was obvious last December.

A Seahawks defense that allowed 16.2 points over the first 12 games gave up 23.3 points in the six games, including the playoffs, after Thomas suffered a season-ending broken leg.

The fact that the Seahawks didn’t pick off a pass in any of those six games after intercepting 11 in the first 12 games further emphasized what Seattle was missing.

Seahawks Insider: Tyler Lockett (almost) on schedule

It’s his presence that has been unmistakable during training camp, though. And as good as Thomas has been in the first seven years of his career, he looks even better right now.

“It’s a revived Earl Thomas,” said Kris Richard, Seattle’s defensive coordinator. “Not as if he’s ever taken this game for granted, but you can just see a guy relieved to be back out there playing football again, doing what he loves to do.”

In fact, the only doubt about Thomas’ comeback came from Thomas himself when he stated first via Twitter and later in a text message to reporter Ed Werder that everything was on the table, including the possibility he might not play again.

Quarterback Russell Wilson said that was an idea that Thomas was quickly talked out of.

“He had that little hiccup where he thought about retirement,” Wilson said. “And we’re like, ‘Earl? No. No shot.’ He’s a guy that he’s so focused, he’s so determined every day in practice. It’s an honor to go against him every day in practice and continues to challenge and continue to grow and develop. To play against one of the best safeties that will ever play this game is a tremendous honor.”

Follow @dannyoneil