Hold up, 12s, because the buzz around Renton is all about one thing, and the numbers don't lie. A massive 42% of you, the most plugged-in Seahawks fans, just voted the defensive backs as the position group you are absolutely itching to watch at training camp. That's a huge chunk, dwarfing running backs at 34% and the offensive line at just 11%. When your fellow fans speak this loud, you know there's some serious action about to drop in the Emerald City.
Jobe's Time to Shine and the Young Guns Ready to Roll
It's no secret why everyone's eyes are glued to the secondary. Josh Jobe is stepping into a full-time starting role, signing that sweet contract extension after balling out last season. He's replacing Riq Woolen, and camp is going to be our first real look at how he owns that outside spot for a full year. But it's not just Jobe. We've got Nick Emmanwori heading into his second season with sky-high expectations after an encouraging rookie campaign. Then there's rookie Julian Neal, who's not just showing up, he's looking to carve out a serious role in sub-packages. And don't forget Nehemiah Pritchett, who actually opened offseason practices as part of Seattle's first-team dime defense. That's a direct competition right there, folks! These guys are fighting for snaps, and when those pads come on, it's gonna be electric.Safety Showdown: Ty Okada Leads, Rookies and Vets Push Hard
Now, let's talk safety, because this might be the quietest but fiercest battle brewing at camp. Ty Okada has the inside track, earning the coaching staff's trust big time last season. Remember when he stepped up when Coby Bryant was unavailable? He started 11 games in 2025, stacked up 65 total tackles, 46 solo stops, six passes defended, one interception, and 1.5 sacks. That's a reliable option right there for Mike Macdonald's defense. But hold your horses, because second-round rookie Bud Clark is here with outstanding ball production, impressive range, and the versatility to play multiple roles. He's one of the most intriguing defensive rookies on this roster. And you cannot sleep on veteran Rodney Thomas II. He's been getting huge praise all offseason for his smarts, communication, and physical style of play, bringing 42 career NFL starts to the table. Mike Macdonald loves versatile defensive backs and specific personnel packages, so you can see why this unit is drawing all the attention! So, with training camp right around the corner, every single snap these guys take is going to matter. Will Jobe solidify his spot? Which young gun will emerge from the pack? And who locks down those safety spots? The 12s have spoken, and they know the secondary is where the real action is. Get ready, Seattle, because Macdonald's defense is about to get cooking, and these DBs are bringing the heat!This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.