Seattle Seahawks open 2024 training camp with Uchenna Nwosu on the PUP list and Sam Darnold in the spotlight. Get the latest on the defense and QB1. (July 17)
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The smell of fresh-cut grass, the thud of pads, the boundless optimism of a new season—training camp is officially underway for the Seattle Seahawks. But with the excitement comes the first dose of reality. Before the first whistle even blew, the team made a significant move, placing star outside linebacker Uchenna Nwosu on the Physically Unable to Perform list, immediately raising questions about the defense's readiness for Week 1.
This is a golden opportunity for Sam Darnold to finally prove he's the guy and solidify himself as a long-term starter.
The news about Uchenna Nwosu, while not entirely unexpected following his offseason knee surgery, casts a shadow over the start of camp. Placing him on the PUP list means he can attend meetings but cannot practice until medically cleared. As discussed on 'Brock & Salk' today, this is exactly the kind of early challenge teams hope to avoid. Nwosu is a cornerstone of the pass rush, and his absence, for any length of time, puts immense pressure on the rest of the defensive front and tests the depth of Mike Macdonald's unit right out of the gate.
While the defense deals with uncertainty, the focus on offense is crystal clear: it's Sam Darnold's show. Legendary broadcaster Joe Buck joined Seattle Sports' 'Wyman & Bob' show to weigh in, calling this a 'golden opportunity' for the veteran QB. Buck expressed optimism about Darnold's fit and praised Coach Macdonald's leadership, suggesting the Seahawks are a potential dark horse in the NFC West. All eyes will be on Darnold throughout camp to see if he can seize this chance and provide the stability the offense needs.
Amidst the serious business of roster moves and position battles, the Seahawks dropped a piece of news that has the 12s buzzing. On October 5, the team will turn back the clock, donning their iconic silver-and-blue throwback uniforms for their matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In a fantastic nostalgic twist, the Bucs will also be wearing their retro 'Creamsicle' kits. It's a celebration of NFL history that promises to make the Week 5 game at Lumen Field an unforgettable visual spectacle.
So, the first big day of the 2025 season is in the books, and it's a mixed bag of concern, anticipation, and pure fun. The health of Uchenna Nwosu will be the dominant defensive storyline to watch as camp unfolds, while Sam Darnold's performance will dictate the narrative on offense. We'll be watching closely to see how these stories develop, but one thing is certain: from critical roster decisions to retro uniform reveals, there will be no shortage of action in Seattle.
