Russell Wilson spotlights rookie guard Damien Lewis as an early leader
By Geoff Shull
Russell Wilson appears to be really high on rookie guard Damien Lewis entering training camp.
Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson recently had a press conference where he spoke on a number of topics. One of which was his take on the rookie class in these weird times. He mentioned that he feels for this group as they drew the short end of the stick in terms of entering the NFL.
However, he also spotlighted a couple of rookies. He praised both running back Deejay Dallas and guard Damien Lewis for their conditioning and mindset. He went even farther with Lewis stating that he has shown consistent leadership qualities.
He has been a leader of the rookie group and in his position grouping. Russell also stated he has been impressed with how well Lewis has done so far with his reads. He seems to have a really good feel for the game. This is especially true when picking up blitzes.
This is phenomenal news for both the fans and Russell Wilson. The Seahawks have missed on so many young offensive linemen, it’s about time they hit on one. Damien Lewis looked like the real deal on tape.
LSU RG Damien Lewis (6-3/335) is a tank on the interior that's big, strong, and nasty. Really good run-blocker, stout anchor, and great finisher. Reminds me a lot of Gabe Jackson coming out. pic.twitter.com/bxmzbCVZHB
— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) December 15, 2019
He plays the run, plays the pass and does both with a mixture of technical refinement and power. His true bread and butter is run blocking. He loves to dominate players. Smash them into the ground. One of his comps going into the draft was actually DJ Fluker.
This off-season Lewis will be battling Mike Iupati, Phil Haynes, Jamarco Jones and Jordan Simmons for playing time. If Russell’s read is right, don’t be surprised if Lewis ends up winning the starting spot in Fluker’s stead. The new starting right guard.
If you want to hear Russell Wilson’s entire press conference, click here.
A couple of notes about Lewis
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Seattle drafted Damien Lewis at the beginning of the third round out of LSU this past off-season. LSU’s offensive line won the Joe Moore Award for the top offensive line in the nation in 2019. Lewis was independently recognized by being voted second-team All-SEC in his final year with the team. He is a powerhouse of a guy. He reportedly squatted 635lbs and benched nearly 500lbs.