Six Seahawks Getting New Numbers, and the Moves Tell You Who's in Mike Macdonald's Plans

The Seahawks just announced their jersey assignments for the offseason, and it's not just paperwork. The number changes reveal who the coaching staff is counting on going forward, and who's in for a bigger role.

The Newcomers Are Locked In

Three free agent additions got their official digits Monday. Cornerback Noah Igbinoghene will wear No. 17, safety Rodney Thomas II is No. 24, and running back Emanuel Wilson is No. 27. These aren't placeholder numbers, either. These are guys Mike Macdonald and Brian Fleury are building around on defense and in the backfield. Safety D'Anthony Bell, who the Panthers poached off waivers mid-December but spent most of last season in Seattle, will keep No. 23.

The Returners Are Getting a Fresh Start

But here's where it gets interesting. Linebacker Drake Thomas is switching from No. 42 to No. 32 after putting together a breakout season. That's not a random change. That's a guy who earned a new identity in the defense. Running back Velus Jones Jr. is taking the displaced No. 33 after wearing No. 32, and linebacker Jalan Gaines is moving up from No. 56 to No. 47 after his preseason work last year.

These moves might sound like administrative fluff, but in the NFL, they're small signals about who's locked into the plans and who's earned more trust from the coaching staff. Drake Thomas had a season worth celebrating, and the Seahawks want the rest of the league to notice.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.