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Analyzing rookie LB Michael Barrett in his Seahawks preseason debut

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 08: Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Washington Huskies looks to throw the ball while under pressure by Michael Barrett #23 of the Michigan Wolverines in the fourth quarter during the 2024 CFP National Championship game at NRG Stadium on January 08, 2024 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 08: Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Washington Huskies looks to throw the ball while under pressure by Michael Barrett #23 of the Michigan Wolverines in the fourth quarter during the 2024 CFP National Championship game at NRG Stadium on January 08, 2024 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

The Seattle Seahawks didn't waste any time getting rookie linebacker Michael Barrett integrated into their defense. Despite being acquired in a trade with the Carolina Panthers for cornerback Mike Jackson on August 22nd, Barrett suited up for the Seahawks' preseason finale just two days later on August 24th. He was productive in a 37-33 exhibition victory over the Cleveland Browns.

Barrett totaled 25 snaps despite not getting in a *single* practice before making his in-game debut. Barrett was the Seahawks' third-most snapped linebacker. Only Tyrice Knight (45) and Patrick O'Connell (36) were more involved. Jerome Baker did not play, and fellow starter Tyrel Dodson was limited to seven plays with the first-string defense.

Pro Football Focus assigned Barrett a stellar run-stopping grade of 72.4. The former Michigan standout had an overall defensive grade of 64.0. Barrett made one tackle, and was targeted twice in coverage, allowing one reception for a 13-yard gain. All in all, it represented a promising debut given the circumstances.

Barrett's familiarity with Mike Macdonald's defense likely aided his swift transition to his new surroundings. Macdonald was Barrett’s defensive coordinator at Michigan in 2021. This past campaign, the off-ball linebacker won a National Championship with the Wolverines while playing for a coaching staff that included Jim and Jay Harbaugh, the latter of which is now Seattle’s special teams coordinator.

Barrett's approximate 48-hour-turnaround from being traded to playing was fascinating. It also indicates the Seahawks have faith in Barrett's ability to execute the defense. His developmental potential will land him on Seattle's initial 53 man roster later this week.

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This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: Analyzing rookie LB Michael Barrett in his Seahawks preseason debut