Seattle wrapped its 17th and final training-camp practice with a whiff of chaos and flashes of brightness at the VMAC. A family-day crowd watched a tentative afternoon give way to a more typical NFL-summer script: big plays mixed with penalties, mental miscues, and a coaching nudge to reset the pace. Tory Horton stood out with two highlight reels, AJ Barner kept climbing the receiving ladder, and undrafted Jared Ivy flashed enough explosiveness to keep roster chatter buzzing ahead of Friday’s Chiefs game. The Seahawks stressed identity on offense—Sam Darnold lining up for a series, with Cooper Cup and Jackson Smith-Njigba earmarked for meaningful action, while Ken Walker III paused to wrap his return. On defense, late-game life came from Nehemiah Pritchette, Dariq Young, Jerick Reed II and Isis Waxter, who all clanged interceptions and offered a reminder that turnover appetite remains a Seattle talking point.

Franchise-dictated questions linger: how much will the starters play in Week 2, and can Seattle sustain a balanced attack with Darnold running the show and a revamped receiving corps featuring Cup and Jigba? Ken Walker’s status is a headline unto itself as the run game looks to establish rhythm behind a pro-ready line. The Chiefs loom at Lumen Field, where the depth chart will be tested against a stacked, veteran-friendly opponent. Jared Ivy’s stock rose again in V-Mac chats, signaling the kind of audition most teams crave heading into the final preseason tilt.

Overall, the mood balanced caution with optimism. Seattle’s edges were highlighted by Horton’s sticky hands, Barner’s continued maturation, and a defense that still shows last-season bite, even amid a few sloppy moments. Friday will not be about perfection but about sustaining momentum, refining protections, and proving a concrete run-pass identity before the regular season kicks off in September.

Training camp is underway, and excitement is palpable among fans and analysts alike. With the departure of Noah Fant, attention shifts to Seattle's tight end prospects, particularly AJ Barner and Noah Ayo. Early polls show Ayo leading Barner in fan enthusiasm, reflecting confidence in his abilities after impressive OTA performances. The coaching staff's decision to release Fant appears strategic, emphasizing a youth movement in the roster. Both tight ends are expected to see significant field time, potentially reshaping the offensive dynamics.

Coach McDonald is also a focal point this camp, showcasing improved command and confidence as he enters his second year guiding the Seahawks. The team’s defense, which finished strong last season, is poised for further development. Analysts believe this season might see a resurgence of a dominant defense, reminiscent of previous years, creating hope for a successful campaign. With key veterans and promising rookies, the Seahawks seem ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season.

Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, tight end emerges as a potential area of need for the Seattle Seahawks, who hold the 18th overall pick. With Noah Fant returning and rookie standout AJ Barner making an impact, the position warrants attention despite the depth of the draft class. While most focus remains on the offensive line and edge rusher positions, the Seahawks might consider trading up for a top prospect like Tyler Warren from Penn State, known for his exceptional receiving abilities and blocking skills.

Warren's statistics from last season are impressive, and his versatility could make him a valuable asset in Seattle's multi-tight end offensive scheme under new coordinator Clint Kubak. However, with two other tight ends also generating buzz, the Seahawks need to weigh their options carefully. Should they opt for a tight end at 18 or focus on more immediate needs? A strong tight end class offers plenty of intriguing prospects, including Coloulston Lovelin and others, allowing Seattle to keep its options open.

The Seattle Seahawks have appointed Clint Kubiak as their new offensive coordinator, a decision that brings both optimism and skepticism among fans. Known for his ability to enhance quarterback performance, Kubiak's previous work with notable quarterbacks like Kurt Cousins and Brock Purdy suggests he could be beneficial for Geno Smith, particularly in the latter's contract year. The Seahawks are looking to integrate Kubiak's offensive philosophies, which align more closely with the successful strategies of the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams.

Additionally, the Seahawks are preparing for the upcoming Senior Bowl, highlighting offensive talent that may be key for their future. Players like AJ Barner and Noah Fant will be assessed as the team looks to improve their tight end position. Overall, the changes reflect a strategic shift aimed at revitalizing the Seahawks' offensive game.