The Seattle Seahawks' preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys was a mixed bag, with both positive and negative takeaways for the team. Here's a breakdown of the key insights from the game, focusing on snap counts and player performance.
Offensive Snap Counts
Montorie Foster's Dominance: Foster's 41 snaps were impressive, especially considering he led the team in receptions and yards. However, his lack of special teams reps is a concern. As a kick and punt returner in training camp, Foster's absence from special teams could be a red flag. This might indicate a potential issue with his versatility or a strategic decision by the coaching staff.
Cody White, Ricky White III, and Emmanuel Henderson Jr.'s Special Teams Role: These receivers had ST reps, with Cody running back kicks. This highlights the importance of special teams for wide receivers, especially those vying for the WR6 spot. It suggests that the team values versatility and all-around skills in their receivers.
Bryce Cabeldue's Limited Opportunities: Cabeldue's zero offensive snaps in the first half and limited guard work suggest he's on the bubble. The competition for backup positions is fierce, and Cabeldue's lack of playing time might indicate a need for more consistent performance.
Defensive Snap Counts
A.J. Finley's Starting Role: Finley's impressive interception and extensive work with the second unit showcase his potential as a starting safety. His performance, especially considering his ACL injury last year, is a positive sign for the team's depth at the safety position.
Edge Rushers in the First Half: Connor O'Toole, Jared Ivey, and Mike Morris were the primary pass rushers on the outside. Their presence and versatility (Ivey and Morris' ability to move inside) highlight the team's strategy to adapt and respond to different defensive schemes.
Hold the Hype on Andre Fuller and Michael Dansby: The rookie corners' lack of defensive snaps until the second half is a cause for concern. While they've made strides in training camp, their limited playing time suggests they still have work to do to secure a roster spot. The impending signing of Terrion Arnold further intensifies the competition.
Personal Commentary
The Seahawks' preseason game revealed a mix of promising and concerning trends. Foster's performance on offense is encouraging, but his lack of special teams work is a potential issue. The team's strategy of limiting established starters' playing time is understandable, but it also highlights the need for depth and versatility across positions.
The defensive unit's adaptability and Finley's strong performance are positive signs. However, the lack of playing time for some players, like Cabeldue and the rookie corners, indicates a competitive battle for roster spots. As the preseason progresses, these players will need to step up and showcase their abilities to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster.
