After being sidelined nearly a week, Geno Smith made a strong return to practice on Monday, leading the Seattle Seahawks’ offense to a touchdown on the first drive of team drills against Mike Macdonald’s defense. The fast start was a promising sign for Smith and the offense, but the defense, filled with versatile playmakers, quickly adjusted and forced Smith’s unit into many short drives throughout a chippy and lengthy training camp practice in Renton, Wash.
It wasn’t until nearly an hour into practice that Seattle’s starting offense finally found the end zone again on a touchdown scamper from Kenneth Walker III, causing the offensive players to erupt on the sidelines. The competition level had escalated, leaving the Seahawks’ new head coach with an annoyed look on his face during his media session with reporters.
“We didn’t finish the way we needed to on defense today,” Macdonald expressed. “That’s what’s burned on my mind right now.”
Second-year wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba shared his frustration with the defense’s performance, which could be seen as a positive for Seahawks fans.
“When I line up, their communication to each other, it’s annoying sometimes,” Smith-Njigba told Sports Illustrated after Monday’s lengthy two-and-a-half-hour practice. “Just always hearing them chirping around, but I feel like, them being on the same page, it’s good.”
The intensity of the practice highlighted the competitive nature of the Seahawks as they continue to work towards their goals for the upcoming season. Smith’s return to practice injected energy into the team, setting the tone for a spirited session that showcased the speed and skill of both the offense and defense. As the Seahawks push themselves to improve each day, the potential for greatness shines through the sweat and hard work on the practice field.