Not long before the first team meeting of 2025 training camp, Ernest Jones IV sat next to fellow linebacker Tyrice Knight, enjoying a short conversation between teammates who were reconnecting after a summer break in the football calendar.
That scene itself, featuring a conversation between teammates who share a position, was far from noteworthy, but given the two participants, it also served as an illustration of why the Seahawks have such high hopes for their second season under head coach Mike Macdonald.
At this time last year, Jones was getting ready for his first season with the Tennessee Titans, while Knight was a rookie backing up veteran starters Tyrel Dodson and Jerome Baker. As the season progressed, however, Jones became available in a trade, with the Seahawks acquiring him for Baker and a draft pick, then a few weeks later, Knight replaced Dodson in the starting lineup, followed by Dodson's release.
The Seahawks also made in-season changes at safety, with Coby Bryant taking over a starting role next to Julian Love, and at cornerback, with Josh Jobe cementing himself as the team's third cornerback behind Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen. Those changes were part of what was an up-and-down first half of the season for the Seahawks on defense, but the end result was a unit that, over the final eight games of the season, ranked fourth in the league in total defense, fifth in scoring defense, fifth in first downs allowed and sixth in pass defense, with the Seahawks winning six of those eight games.
Now, the Seahawks return for their 50th training camp with almost their entire starting defense back, plus some exciting additions like rookie safety Nick Emmanwori and veteran defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. And on a Tuesday afternoon lunch break, a pair of starting linebackers can sit around talking ball, building chemistry when, at this time a year ago, they weren't even teammates.
"When we came back off of last season (for offseason workouts), of course you have to start anew, but we were able to build something during that offseason period," Jones said Tuesday. "We're coming back strong, coming back locked in, so I'm excited about how we can carry that over.
"I'm super excited to start building that chemistry, to get real live plays going. Going through a full training camp, getting opportunities to go against other teams and sharpen iron before we get started."
Jones expects the time he and Knight have spent together, on and off the field dating back to last season, should pay dividends for the defense in 2025.
"What's special about that now is that we've built a relationship off the field," Jones said. "That's only going to help us on the field; we already had chemistry on the field in the way that we move and the way that we see things. So I think a whole training camp under our belt just to learn from each other and keep getting better, I think we can be one of the best duos."
Bryant who bounced from corner to nickel to safety before settling into a full-time starting role last season, said the start of camp is "exciting to be back playing football again. It's Year 2 (under Macdonald), we're learning the defense even more, having everybody back, growing from last year, everybody is excited to be back playing with each other."
But for as much as things stayed the same on defense, there has been a ton of change on offense, both schematically, with Klint Kubiak taking over as offensive coordinator, and on the roster, with the Seahawks moving on from the likes of Geno Smith, DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett while adding Sam Darnold, Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, among others.
That kind of change means there is plenty of learning to do in camp, but the clear direction of the offense under Kubiak has players confident that the end results will be a better, more balanced attack.
"I'm excited about a new culture, new faces on the offensive side of the ball," said receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who is coming off a Pro-Bowl season in his second year in the NFL. "Coming in, earlier this spring, the communication was just as clear as ever, and I can see the strides towards where we want to take it. The picture is clear, and just talking to the rest of the offense, they see it like that too. So that's what really fires me up, just a clear picture of our goals and how we're going to get there and how we're going to execute it. So everybody is just excited about the plan."
After going through the offseason workout program in a new offense and with some new teammates, Smith-Njigba came away impressed with two of Seattle's highest-profile additions.
On Kupp, Smith-Njigba said, "He's just next level when it comes to the brains of football. It's awesome to have him as a teammate after I just had DK and Tyler Lockett. Just to have another brain that has been in the position, that's really seen a lot of football, it's like a cheat code. Like I said with Tyler, it's like having another coach on the field, it helps make everyone comfortable."
And on his new quarterback, Smith-Njigba pointed to Darnold's "Leadership and arm talent. Those are the two things that really stick out. Coming every day, putting in the work, not only vocal, which is something we definitely need from that position, but just showing us, putting the work in, getting with us, making sure we're all connected off the field. I just feel like he fits the mold. It's a new mold, but that piece is very important, and he's been doing an excellent job."
Smith-Njigba also pointed to the workouts Darnold organized in Southern California to get in extra work with skill players as something that will help the Seahawks hit the ground running in camp.
"It was very valuable," he said. "He started planning that trip like as soon as he got signed, making sure we were getting work at that time. It was crucial, coming out of minicamp, knowing the offense and what it's supposed to look like. Getting a head start for training camp is great, it boosts our confidence to go out there and play on time and to really go the direction we're headed."
As for Seattle's offensive line, that group, which added first-round pick Grey Zabel, the presumed starter at left guard, the start of camp means those linemen can soon get in pads and really start to show what they can do in this new offense.
"I'm excited to get started with training and really bring it to life, playing with the guys, and being able to run the ball," said left tackle Charles Cross. "We're working into it, because we're not in pads right away, but I'm excited about the process. I feel like once we put the pads on, it will be a good starting point for us, feeling double teams and playing as one."
Much like fellow tackle Abraham Lucas, who talked about the new offensive coaches’ commitment to the run game earlier this offseason, Cross is excited about what that emphasis on the run game can do to help the line and the offense as a whole.
"It's exciting," Cross said. "Being able to run the ball opens up so many different things. Being able to control the game and play at our place, so I'm excited about the opportunity to run the ball and get things started."
Seahawks players walked the blue carpet as they arrived for the beginning of training camp at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams (99) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon (21) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence (0) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks tight end AJ Barner (88) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks safety Nick Emmanwori (3) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen (27) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks safety Julian Love (20) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (1) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks safety Coby Bryant (8) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks safety Coby Bryant (8) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (7) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks tight end Elijah Arroyo (18) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba (11) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks defensive end Mike Morris (94) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks cornerback Damarion Williams (37) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Tory Horton (15) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks linebacker Jamie Sheriff (50) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver John Rhys Plumlee (17) and safety AJ Finley (30) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks guard Christian Haynes (64) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Jake Bobo (19) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Dareke Young (83) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks safety Julian Love (20) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks tackle Charles Cross (67) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks tackle Michael Jerrell (65) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks guard Sataoa Laumea (63) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks nose tackle Bubba Thomas (69) and nose tackle J.R. Singleton (70) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks offensive lineman Mason Richman (78) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett (28) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks safety Jerrick Reed II (32) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks fullback Brady Russell (38) and linebacker Josh Ross (47) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks tackle Abraham Lucas (72) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks nose tackle Brandon Pili (95) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks tackle Luke Felix-Fualalo (73) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks safety D'Anthony Bell (23) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Montorie Foster Jr. (87) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks linebacker Tyrice Knight (48) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks linebacker Tyrice Knight (48) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks running back Kenny McIntosh (25) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks defensive tackle Jarran Reed (90) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks defensive tackle Jarran Reed (90) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks tight end Eric Saubert (81) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (1) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (1) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (1) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Cody White (82) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Ricky White III (86) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett (28) and linebacker Tyreke Smith (59) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks linebacker Tyreke Smith (59) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks guard Bryce Cabeldue (77), guard Grey Zabel (76), defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence (0) and center Federico Maranges (62) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks cornerback Shemar Jean-Charles (34) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks tackle Josh Jones (74) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams (99) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Steven Sims (84) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks punter Michael Dickson (4) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe (53) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe (53) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock (2) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks quarterback Jalen Milroe (6) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV (13) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
Seahawks wide receiver Tory Horton (15) arrived at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center for the beginning of training camp on July 22, 2025.
