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4 takeways from first week of Seahawks training camp

Jul 27, 2024; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) walks off the field after training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 27, 2024; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) walks off the field after training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

The Seattle Seahawks are back in action after taking the weekend off. Last week marked the beginning of training camp for Seattle, and although it is early, we are starting to see plenty of notable storylines emerge alreay.

While the Seahawks gear up for Week 2, it is time to take a look back on what we saw from last week, and which storylines we should keep an eye on in the coming days.

Geno Smith is off to a hot start

Jul 27, 2024; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (7) jogs off the field after training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 27, 2024; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (7) jogs off the field after training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

The Seahawks starter is showing he wants to remain as such. Geno Smith is entering his third season as Seattle's No. 1 quarterback and he is playing like it. The word from camp has been revolving around how hot Smith has been, and showing a clear distinction.

It isn't just the media singing Smith's praises. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb spoke highly about his coachability and humility, but noted the fact he still has a "chip on his shoulder." A fantastic combination for an NFL quarterback to have.

Sam Howell, on the other hand, is struggling

RENTON, WASHINGTON - JUNE 03: Sam Howell #6 of the Seattle Seahawks looks on during practice at Virginia Mason Athletic Center on June 03, 2024 in Renton, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
RENTON, WASHINGTON - JUNE 03: Sam Howell #6 of the Seattle Seahawks looks on during practice at Virginia Mason Athletic Center on June 03, 2024 in Renton, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

For as sharp as Geno Smith has been, backup Sam Howell has been the opposite. Howell was acquired from the Washington Commanders before the 2024 NFL draft via trade. Many wondered if this was the Seahawks attempting to provide legitimate competition for Smith, or perhaps even groom him to be his successor.

It's early, but right now, it seems Howell is a clear cut backup quarterback at this point. Which, ultimately, is good for Smith and the Seahawks' offensive promise for this season.

Tre Brown is emerging

(Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images)
(Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images)

The Seahawks cornerback room is going to be rife with competition this summer. After drafting a pair of Auburn corners in DJ James and Nehemiah Pritchett, it was clear that jobs were going to have to be earned under Macdonald's regime. So far, fourth year pro Tre Brown is doing his best to earn one himself.

Last week, it was reported he was giving the talented Seahawks offensive trio of Smith, DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett issues, defensively. If he is able to keep this up, and manage to stay healthy like he did in 2023, Brown could provide similar issues to opposing teams.

Growing pains for Byron Murphy II

Jul 27, 2024; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Byron Murphy II (91) during training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 27, 2024; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Byron Murphy II (91) during training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

I fully believe Byron Murphy II is going to be a star in this league. His body type is not built like other defensive tackles, and you don't get compared to Aaron Donald is you don't have unimaginable potential. But for starters, the rookie has plenty to learn.

Head coach Mike Macdonald said of Murphy:

"I think Murph had probably a slower couple days than he wanted to to start out, but he’s bounced back and he’s making a lot of plays out there. Initially you think more of a B-gap type player, being able to move inside and out; A-gap all the way out. I think if he keeps staying on this progression, then you could see him at any of those spots."

Of course, it is only the first week of his first training camp in the NFL. Pro Bowl caliber seasons aren't built in a few days. It will certainly take time, but for right now, I don't think anyone should be worried.

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GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - AUGUST 26: A detailed view of a Seattle Seahawks helmet prior to a preseason game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on August 26, 2023 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - AUGUST 26: A detailed view of a Seattle Seahawks helmet prior to a preseason game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on August 26, 2023 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

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This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: 4 takeways from first week of Seahawks training camp