Seattle Seahawks

Russell Wilson, Ciara, Stephen Curry witness Sabrina Inonescu make history

Russell Wilson, Ciara, Stephen Curry witness Sabrina Inonescu make history

By Ashley Young February 24, 2020 9:04 PM

There were a few familiar faces in Maples Pavilion for No. 3 Oregon women's basketball at No. 4 Stanford.

On a night where Oregon senior Sabrina Ionescu became the first player in the NCAA to reach 2,000 career points, 1,000 career assists and 1,000 career rebounds, she did so in front of elite company.

NBA star Stephen Curry, a fellow California-native and close friend to Ionescu, was there with his wife Ayesha to witness history being made. 

Curry was also in Berkeley last Friday and took his two daughters to the Ducks take on Cal and to watch Ionescu in action.

The Curry's were down in Los Angeles along with Ionescu on Monday morning to celebrate the life of their dear friends Kobe and Gigi Bryant.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson and Ciara were there supporting his younger sister Anna Wilson, a senior guard on the Stanford Cardinal who was celebrating her senior night.

So much greatness in one photo!

Washington Governor references Tom Brady, not Russell Wilson, when calling out President Trump

Washington Governor references Tom Brady, not Russell Wilson, when calling out President Trump

By Lindsey Wisniewski March 27, 2020 10:44 AM

In a conference call with President Trump on Thursday, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee asked the president to take more action in securing medical supplies for his state as the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread across the U.S. 

When Trump responded to the governors that he was ready to “backup” states in crisis, Inslee interjected with this response:

“We don’t need a backup. We need a Tom Brady."

Um...a Tom Brady is exactly what Washingtonians don't need, Mr. Inslee. 

The reference to the six-time Super Bowl champion sent shockwaves through the Seattle community, who were upset the governor chose to use Brady as an example, rather than beloved Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson.

Inslee later realized he missed the mark, dishing out this save in a post on Twitter.

Seahawks fans rejoiced. 

This isn’t the first time the governor has praised Wilson in recent weeks. The Pro Bowl quarterback and his wife, Ciara, recently pledged to donate 1 million meals to the Seattle community during the unprecedented times. Inslee thanked the Wilsons for their generosity.  

Nice, save!

How Ciara helped Russell Wilson level up his fashion game 

How Ciara helped Russell Wilson level up his fashion game 

By Lindsey Wisniewski March 26, 2020 4:13 PM

The Russell Wilson Hawaiian shirt can finally be laid to rest. 

It was one of Wilson’s beloved pre-Ciara favorites and thankfully for us, it became immortalized in the meme world and Twittersphere forever. But Wilson has since ditched his funky threads and he’s thanking his wife Ciara for the change. 

“I’m going to give you the credit, but listen, you stepped up my fashion game a little bit,” Wilson told Ciara in an Instagram Live video Thursday. “I had something. Everyone makes fun because I wore the Hawaiian shirt, and that’s the only photo y’all see. I’m going to Hawaii…anyways, I’ll leave that back there. But listen, you said level up, I leveled up.”

The Seattle Seahawks star quarterback and pop star took to Instagram Thursday in celebration of their five-year anniversary. The Wilsons shared stories about how they first met, and how Wilson’s “janky” wallet caught Ciara’s eye. She told him he was losing it. 

“I had this wallet. She says it was janky, I said it was necessary,” Wilson said. “So I was single and I lost all my stuff back then. So, I had this bible-looking wallet. It had like my cards on one side, my phone on the other, but it was a broke down wallet.”

He continued: “You need a man that’s going to be consistent for you. This wallet has been consistent for me.”

Well, Wilson’s glow-up appears to be working. NFL Media’s Andrew Hawkins recently parodied the All-Pro quarterback and his pre/post Ciara fits. The impression was spot on.  

What can we say? Behind every man is an even better woman. Happy Anniversary, Russell and Ciara!

Why Russell Wilson is already Seattle’s most iconic athlete of all time 

Why Russell Wilson is already Seattle’s most iconic athlete of all time 

By Joe Fann March 26, 2020 2:56 PM

I had a thought in my head earlier this week that felt crazy at first.  

Is it possible that Russell Wilson is already Seattle’s most iconic athlete of all time? 

An easy case can be made in Wilson’s favor. I wouldn’t argue against anyone who believes it’s still Ken Griffey Jr., but as Wilson continues to take the Seahawks to the playoffs and string Pro Bowl seasons together, the scales will eventually tilt indisputably in the quarterback’s favor.  

Not only does Wilson play the most prominent position in sports, but he’s been the catalyst for the most successful run in Seattle sports history. He helped lead the Seahawks to the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory, while the Mariners are still yet to win an American League pennant.  

Wilson, through eight seasons with likely at least another eight ahead of him, already has a ridiculous amount of NFL records to his name. Like Griffey, Wilson will be a first-ballot Hall of Famer barring a catastrophic and unforeseen downturn in his play. 

You can’t overstate the mystique surrounding “The Kid” in his prime. Griffey had video games named after him and a swing that was emulated in backyards around the world. He was a true phenom whose glove was on par with his generational ability as a hitter. However, Wilson’s athleticism and off-script Houdini magic has a similar jaw-dropping effect in a “how on earth did he just do that” sort of way. He also redefined how the NFL evaluates the most important position in sports. There's no chance that Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray get drafted No. 1 overall without Wilson's success.

Playing his entire career in Seattle would be another valuable line on Wilson’s résumé when it comes to this conversation. While Griffey's defenders will surely scream "recency bias," it's important to note that revisionist history is also a thing. People conveniently forget how painful it was when Griffey requested a trade and left Seattle. He simply never made Seattle his home in the way Wilson has.

And that's why the real kicker, in my opinion, is how Wilson has embraced the Seattle community since he arrived as a third-round pick back in 2012. His weekly trips to Seattle Children’s Hospital has a profound impact on the patients and families he comes in contact with. His Why Not You Foundation continues to give opportunities to underprivileged youth across the greater Seattle area. Just last week, he and his wife Ciara donated one million meals through Food Lifeline to help those in need during the COVID-19 Pandemic. 

His purchase of a minority stake in the Seattle Sounders and public support of bringing back the Sonics only deepened his bond with the city.

When it’s all said and done, Wilson will not just be Seattle’s undisputed GOAT, but the way he’s revered in this city will rival any athlete’s respective fame in any other region of the country. It’s rare, it’s unprecedented, it’s worth celebrating regularly and Seahawks fans should make sure they aren’t taking it for granted. 

20 years ago today, we said goodbye to the Kingdome

20 years ago today, we said goodbye to the Kingdome

By NBCS NW Staff March 26, 2020 12:46 PM

Today should be Opening Day for MLB teams across the country. 

Instead, it’s #OpeningDayAtHome due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

It also happens to be the 20th anniversary of the Kingdome in Seattle, Washington being imploded. With that in mind, let’s revisit the history of one of the most controversial and interestingly designed sports facilities that once stood out on the Seattle skyline.

FACTS ABOUT THE KINGDOME

- Opened in March 1976

- Formally known as the King County Multipurpose Domed Stadium

- Home to the Seattle Mariners (MLB), Seahawks (NFL), Sonics (NBA) and Sounders (NASL).

- The project initially budgeted for $40 million in 1968

- Construction began in 1972

- The Kingdome covered 9.1 acres, and used 52,800 cubic yards of concrete. The building contained 443 tons of structural steel. It accommodated 64,722 football fans, 59,623 baseball fans, and 80,000 "personality show" attendees. 

- For 24 years the Kingdome was the destination for fans and revelers attending events as diverse as ball games, revival meetings, and motorcycle races

- The kingdome was imploded on March 26, 2000, one day before its 24th birthday.

The Seahawks spent two seasons playing at Husky Stadium, home to the University of Washington football team. In 2002, the Seahawks moved into CenturyLink Field, formally known as Qwest Field.

[RELATED]: Russell Wilson wants Seahawks to bring back these vintage treads

Seattle played almost all of their home games at the Kingdome from 1976 to 1999, but unfortunately their first game in the Kingdome and last game were both losses. The first was a 27-20 preseason loss to the San Francisco 49ers in August 1976; the latter was a 20-7 playoff loss to the Miami Dolphins in January 2000. 

The Mariners had a similar start to their Kingdome days on April 6, 1977, when the Mariners lost to the California Angels, 7-0. Seattle spent 22 and a half seasons in the Kingdome.

    According to MLB.com, the Kingdome was considered a hitter's park. The dimensions were short, the ball carried well in the controlled indoor climate (68-72 degrees), and the hard Astroturf field benefited hitters as well. 

    The Mariners moved into Safeco Field, now known as T-Mobile Park, in July 1999.

    Why WR Phillip Dorsett is a perfect fit with the Seahawks

    Why WR Phillip Dorsett is a perfect fit with the Seahawks

    By Joe Fann March 26, 2020 10:43 AM

    The bulk of the Seahawks moves, as anticipated, have come in the trenches. Seattle has been diligent in adding quality and depth along the offensive line, and they’re continuing their pursuit of a top-tier pass rusher.

    Adding Phillip Dorsett was an under-the-radar move that hasn’t gotten much buzz. The former Patriots wide receiver has the potential to fill a potentially important role on the Seahawks roster. NBC Sports Boston’s Phil Perry, who covered Dorsett during the receiver’s three-year stint in New England, said Seattle should be a great fit for the former first-round pick.

    “As a No. 3 or a No. 4 in Seattle, somebody who can complement DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, that feels like the right kind of role for Phillip Dorsett.”

    The Seahawks struggled to find a consistent No. 3 wideout in 2019. David Moore underwhelmed following a promising 2018 campaign, Malik Turner flashed but lacked consistency, Josh Gordon got suspended indefinitely after just five games, Jaron Brown was a non-factor for most of the season and Seattle never really gave John Ursua much of a chance.

    Dorsett thrived in a similar role in New England. According to Perry, from the end of 2018 to the beginning of 2019, Dorsett had a stretch of catching 26 consecutive targets, the fourth-longest streak in the NFL since 2009.

    “He came through for Tom Brady in some big spots,” Perry said.

    Dorsett caught four passes for 41 yards and a touchdown in the 2018 Divisional Round against the Chargers. He then caught a clutch 29-yard touchdown in the AFC Championship Game against the Chiefs the following week.

    Things went south for Dorsett in 2019. New England cut Antonio Brown and Josh Gordon, and first-round pick N’Keal Harry struggled to stay healthy. Dorsett struggled after being thrust into a more prominent role.

    He posted 29 receptions for 397 yards and five touchdowns in 14 games last season.

    “When he was asked to be a No. 2 receiver, which happened at times in 2019 because the Patriots receiver depth was in the tank, it didn’t go so well,” Perry said. “It was harder for him to find separation, and you saw his overall per target numbers come down.”

    That shouldn’t be an issue in Seattle as long as Metcalf and Lockett stay healthy. Additionally, Dorsett’s 4.33-speed should be a huge asset to the Seahawks vertical passing game. Russell Wilson is regarded as one of the best deep ball throwers in the NFL, and he has no shortage of targets who can take the top off of a defense.

    The position battle at receiver should be a fun one to watch, especially if Seattle decides to draft one in April.

    Russell Wilson wants Seahawks to bring back these vintage threads

    Russell Wilson wants Seahawks to bring back these vintage threads

    By Lindsey Wisniewski March 26, 2020 9:15 AM

    Say it’s true. 

    The NFL is considering a change to the one-helmet rule, which mandates a team wear only one color on their helmet. If such a rule were implemented, NFL teams would like to use an alternate uniform with an alternate helmet to do it.

    Russell Wilson made it clear he firmly approves of this idea. 

    In a post on Twitter Wednesday night, the Seattle Seahawks franchise quarterback shared a photoshopped version of himself rocking the Cortez Kennedy-Curt Warner era throwback threads. 

    “This is a MUST,” Wilson said in the post. “Seahawks fans around the world would love! #JustDoIt #Throwbacks.”

    Another photo circulated from Twitter user Condre3k with DK Metcalf donning retro white threads. 

    Seahawks fans sent their stamp of approval on Wilson’s idea. 

    Could you imagine….the Seahawks once again in these bad boys? Mind blown.  

    NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk that there will be no change for the 2020 season. The ongoing discussions for a change would take place in 2021, but no decisions have been made as of now. 

    Tampa Bay head coach Bruce Arians told The Dan Patrick Show on Wednesday that the Bucs’ creamsicle throwbacks could make a comeback if the one-helmet rule is ditched. 

    “I think once the helmet rule change, next year, we might have some creamsicles, some throwbacks, which I think are the best uniforms in the league,” Arians said. 

    The league created the one-helmet rule in 2013 that said teams were required to choose one helmet color a season no matter what alternate uniform combination the team wanted to have. The Seahawks went with dark blue. If Seattle were to do its throwback jerseys, they would need silver helmets to match the vintage duds.

    So, will we ever get to see these classics in the modern NFL? Seahawks fans are clamoring for a return to the team’s storied uniforms, but Wilson’s desire to rock these old-school style throwbacks will have to wait for now. 

    Doug Baldwin pivots into action to help Seattle community

    Doug Baldwin pivots into action to help Seattle community

    By Lindsey Wisniewski March 25, 2020 4:07 PM

    Doug Baldwin has shifted his focus from football to philanthropy.  

    The former Seattle Seahawks wide receiver recently sprung into action, in light of Washington State’s new “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, to help Seattle families and those in need. 

    Baldwin and the Family First Community Center Foundation teamed up with Safeway, NW Harvest and community partners to assist those who have been impacted by the global coronavirus pandemic. 

    “Whether you are here in the Seattle area, or anywhere else in the world, we have all been affected by COVID-19,” Baldwin said in a statement via Family First Renton. “I think I can speak for the majority in that our main concern is the health of our families and community. There is no greater time than now to show our compassion for each other. To the brave men and women on the frontlines combating the spread of the virus — Thank you! We owe a great deal of gratitude to you for your sacrifice.”

    [RELATED: Former Seahawks WR Doug Baldwin has found an identity outside of football]

    Baldwin addresses a number of ways the community can step up to help those in need. People can make donations to provide lunch service for kids while school is out or to the unemployed families who need help with meals. Individuals can also volunteer to deliver food to the doorsteps of those who need it most. 

    “Despite the challenges that lie ahead, I am confident we will rise from this moment stronger and more united,” Baldwin said. 

    If you or someone you know would like to give back to the Seattle community, make sure you donate or sign up as a volunteer at FamilyFirstRenton.org. 

     

    8 remaining free agents the Seahawks could still target

    8 remaining free agents the Seahawks could still target

    By Joe Fann March 25, 2020 12:44 PM

    The Seattle Seahawks have done a nice job retooling their roster over the first two weeks of free agency. That’s, of course, under the assumption that they’re able to re-sign Jadeveon Clowney and/or land another top tier pass rusher. More on those guys in a second.

    Seattle has improved its offensive line and added depth to that group. The secondary looks to be much improved after a trade for Quinton Dunbar. Bruce Irvin should be a massive upgrade to Ziggy Ansah, and the Seahawks are counting on a bounce back year from Jarran Reed. Russell Wilson also has added weapons with the additions of Phillip Dorsett and Greg Olsen (albeit a move that came a while back).

    But there’s still work left to be done, and here are eight players who the Seahawks could target as free agency continues.

    1. DE Jadeveon Clowney

    This one is obvious, and I don’t have much to add. Clowney isn’t getting the $20 million APY multi-year deal he was hoping for, and so he may end up signing a one-year contract somewhere. It would make sense to return to Seattle, where he’s familiar with the scheme, coaching staff and locker room.

    2. DE Everson Griffen

    Many Seahawks fans are hoping that Seattle will land Clowney and Griffen. If they can’t land both, Griffen would be a quality consolation prize if the Seahawks miss out on Clowney. He posted eight sacks and 70 total pressures for the Vikings in 2019.

    3. LB/DE Markus Golden

    Golden remains another solid option to bolster Seattle’s pass rush. He posted 10 sacks and 64 total pressures for the Giants last season.

    4. S/DB Damarious Randall

    Randall was linked to the Seahawks on the very first day of free agency, but he’s still yet to sign anywhere. He’s played safety the last two years for the Browns, however, he has experience at nickel as well. Randall would be great competition for Ugo Amadi if the price is right.

    5. RB Devonta Freeman

    The Seahawks need to bring in a running back this offseason, and I think they’re better served signing a cheap veteran than using an early-round draft pick on one. Freeman’s market isn’t likely to be much more than the veteran minimum. He could serve as Carson’s backup while the Seahawks exercise patience with Rashaad Penny’s return from an ACL tear. Freeman posted just 656 yards in 2019 for the Falcons.

    6. LB/DE Clay Matthews

    The Rams released Clay Matthews on the same day as Todd Gurley last week. Matthews played for Pete Carroll at USC, and the Southern California native might prefer to stay on the West Coast. He posted 8.0 sacks in 2019, albeit in a 3-4 system compared to Seattle’s 4-3 scheme. Matthews figures to be a last resort if the other options sign elsewhere. There’s also a chance he could be signed in addition to one of those other names.

    7. DL Shelby Harris

    It’s a bit surprising that Harris is still unsigned. He won’t come super cheap as he had a productive year in 2019 for the Broncos with 6.0 sacks and nine passes defended. Harris would be a nice replacement for Quinton Jefferson should the Seahawks miss out in the edge rushing market. Harris has experience at multiple spots along the defensive line, including the 3-technique and the 5-technique.

    8. RB Carlos Hyde

    Hyde had a much more productive year than Freeman and might ultimately be a better fit. Hyde posted a career-high 1,070 yards in 2019 for the Texans, but is now looking for a new home after Houston traded for David Johnson. Like most other running backs left on the market, he should be able to be had for cheap.

    Report: Former Seahawks RT Germain Ifedi signs with Chicago Bears

    Report: Former Seahawks RT Germain Ifedi signs with Chicago Bears

    By Lindsey Wisniewski March 25, 2020 11:59 AM

    Germain Ifedi is headed to the Chicago Bears. 

    Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the former Seattle Seahawks offensive lineman is signing a one-year deal with the Bears. 

    This is Seattle’s fourth unrestricted free agent departure this offseason. Offensive tackle George Fant, defensive lineman Quinton Jefferson and defensive tackle Al Woods all signed deals with other NFL teams in free agency. 

    The Seahawks addition of Brandon Shell seemingly marked the end of the Ifedi era. Seattle reached an agreement with the former Jets’ OT on a two-year, $11 million deal, as first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. 

    Ifedi, who will be 26 going into the 2020 NFL season, started 60 games over the past four seasons for Seattle. The Seahawks No. 31 overall pick in 2016 played every offensive snap last season, but had an alarming 14 penalties in 16 games. 

    Load more