The Seattle Seahawks are preparing for the upcoming season with a new primary running back in Jadarian Price. Following a Super Bowl victory last season, Seattle faces significant roster changes, including the departure of foundational players like Kenneth Walker III, Coby Bryant, Riq Woolen, and Boye Mafe. The team also saw offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak leave for a head coaching position in Las Vegas.
Walker, who was the Super Bowl MVP, has moved to the Kansas City Chiefs. This exodus of talent, coupled with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's departure, creates opportunities for new players to step into larger roles.
The Seahawks drafted Price, a running back from Notre Dame, with the 32nd overall pick in the recent draft. Described as a physical downhill runner, Price has reportedly impressed coaches and teammates during training camp.
"He’s a really special player," quarterback Sam Darnold told reporters. "He brings a different facet to the offense that only a guy like him can bring. He can really do it all, and I know he’s just going to continue to get better and learn."
Price showed promise at Notre Dame, scoring 15 total touchdowns and averaging six yards per carry, despite playing behind Jeremiyah Love. He also contributed with kick returns.
The path for Price to an immediate impact has been further cleared by an injury to fellow running back Zach Charbonnet, who has been placed on the PUP list while recovering from an ACL tear. This situation elevates the importance of Price, along with backups George Holani and Emmanuel Wilson, in the Seahawks' backfield.
Analysts are predicting Price to exceed 6.5 rushing touchdowns for the season, a bet highlighted as a strong option given the Seahawks' offensive potential. With quarterback Sam Darnold expected to distribute the ball to receivers like Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Rashid Shaheed, and Cooper Kupp, the offense anticipates frequent trips to the red zone, providing Price with numerous opportunities to score.
The Seahawks, with 11/1 odds to repeat as Super Bowl champions, are fourth-best on the odds board. They are also listed at +210 to win the NFC West division, facing competition from rivals like the Los Angeles Rams, who have bolstered their defense with additions such as Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie, and the return of Aaron Donald.