Rookie Standouts in Seahawks' Preseason Opener
Introduction
The Seattle Seahawks' preseason opener on Thursday night was an exciting showcase for the team's rookies. Led by head coach Pete Carroll, the Seahawks faced off against the Oakland Raiders at Lumen Field. The game was a chance for the rookies to prove themselves and make a standout impression. Let's take a look at some of the key moments from the game.
Rookie Performances
The Seahawks' first-round pick, linebacker Jordyn Brooks, made an immediate impact with a sack on the Raiders' first possession. The team's second-round pick, defensive end Darrell Taylor, also showed his talent with a sack and a forced fumble. In addition, wide receiver Freddie Swain caught a 35-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Geno Smith in the third quarter. These standout performances from the rookies bode well for the Seahawks' upcoming season.
The Pete Carroll Effect
Pete Carroll's leadership and coaching skills were on full display during the preseason opener. He has built a strong culture within the Seahawks' organization, and it was evident in the way the rookies played with confidence and determination. Carroll's ability to develop and unleash the potential of young players has been a key factor in the team's success over the years.
About the People Mentioned
Pete Carroll
Pete Carroll, born September 15, 1951, in San Francisco, California, is a veteran American football coach renowned for his success across college and professional levels.[1][6] He is one of only three coaches to win both a Super Bowl and a college football national championship, achieving the former with the Seattle Seahawks and the latter at the University of Southern California (USC).[1][2] Carroll's coaching career began in the NFL as defensive backs coach for the Buffalo Bills (1984) and Minnesota Vikings (1985-1989), followed by defensive coordinator roles with the New York Jets (1990-1993) and San Francisco 49ers (1995-1996).[1][3] He served as head coach for the Jets (1994, 6-10 record), New England Patriots (1997-1999, 27-21 record with two playoff appearances), and Seahawks (2010-2023, 137-89-1 record).[1][2][3] With Seattle, he also held the title of executive vice president of football operations, leading the team to its first Super Bowl victory in 2013 (43-8 over Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII), a Super Bowl appearance in 2014, and multiple division titles, including as the first 7-9 team to win one.[1][2][5] He became the Seahawks' all-time wins leader in 2018 and earned a spot on the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team.[1] At USC (2001-2009), Carroll compiled a 97-19 record, secured seven straight Pac-10 titles (2002-2008), two national championships (2003-2004), and a 34-game winning streak, with 53 players drafted to the NFL, including 14 first-round picks.[1][3] Known for his inclusive leadership style, he was fired from the Seahawks on January 10, 2024.[1][2] As of 2025, Carroll serves as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, bringing 170 career NFL head coaching wins and 18 seasons of experience to the role.[4]
About the Organizations Mentioned
Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington, and a member of the National Football Conference (NFC) West division in the National Football League (NFL). Established in 1976, the Seahawks are known for their unique history, having switched conferences twice, initially moving from the NFC to the American Football Conference (AFC) in 1977 and returning to the NFC in 2002[1][2]. ### History and Achievements - **Early Years**: The Seahawks began play in the NFC but quickly moved to the AFC, where they spent 25 years. Their first winning season was in 1978, with notable players like Jim Zorn and Steve Largent[1][3]. - **Recent Success**: Under the ownership of Paul Allen, who purchased the team in 1997, the Seahawks experienced significant success. They won their first Super Bowl in 2014 (Super Bowl XLVIII) and have appeared in multiple NFC Championship games[1][5]. - **Notable Coaches**: Mike Holmgren and Pete Carroll have been pivotal in the team's success. Holmgren led the Seahawks to their first Super Bowl appearance in 2005, while Carroll oversaw a dominant defensive era, winning Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014[5]. ### Current Status - **Performance**: As of the 2025 season, the Seahawks have a playoff record of 17-19 and have won nine NFC West titles since their return to the NFC[2]. - **Ownership**: After Paul Allen's passing in 2018, the team is currently owned by the Paul G. Allen Trust, ensuring continuity in leadership and strategy[5]. ### Notable Aspects - **Fan Engagement**: The Seahawks are famous for their loud fan base, known as the "12th Man," which has been recorded causing seismic activity during games, such as the "Beast Quake" in 2010[6].
