Seattle Seahawks preseason MVP comes from position of need

With no clear-cut direction at the quarterback position, the Seattle Seahawks are looking to build a new foundation for the future. Primarily, hoping that this 2022 draft class combined with other youthful talents can eventually result in Seattle hoisting another Lombardi trophy.

The preseason allows for teams to find hidden gems, who were either undrafted free agents, aging veterans or a player who is actively engaged in a competitive battle at his respective position. Teams start training camp with 70+ players on their active roster. At least 20 of them are fighting for their NFL lives. As we will see in the next day, nearly 900 players will be cut or signed to a practice squad.

The beauty of this process is the hard work that you see come to fruition over the 3-week preseason span. Practicing in beating heat, giving full forth effort in the second half of games where the stands are nearly empty. Yet, none of that matters for some of these young players, and even veterans in certain cases. The ultimate end goal is to make the team by any means possible.

The Seattle Seahawks have had multiple players make impressive imprints throughout August. Despite the 0-3 preseason record, young talent flashed their potential. Specifically, one ball carrier who is fighting to earn meaningful playing time in the regular season.

Seattle Seahawks preseason standout: HB DeeJay Dallas

Running the football will be more prevalent than ever before in Seattle for the 2022 season. Thus, what DeeJay Dallas showed in preseason should have this Seahawks coaching staff excited. Certainly, there were others who showed up and showed out. Some names worth mentioning are Myles Adams, Mike Jackson and Marquise Blair. But, I believe they will not have the impact that DeeJay Dallas can have for this Seahawks team throughout the regular season.

Although Geno Smith got named the starting quarterback for the season opener, the majority would likely agree he is not the future of this franchise. After all, he is 31 years old and is taking over an offense that Russell Wilson led for a decade. It is going to be hard to replace the magician himself. Geno is going to have to stay true to himself and play within his own style.

So, what does that mean for this Seattle offense? Establishing the run will open up the offense for Geno. With Rashaad Penny listed as the starting running back, it is hard to ignore the elephant in the room known as his injury history. The second-round pick out of Michigan State, Kenneth Walker III, who I believe is going to become a star in this league is dealing with a hernia issue that may keep him sidelined early on in the season.

That is where DeeJay Dallas comes into play. His explosiveness jumped off the screen throughout the preseason. He led the team in rushing yards in Weeks 1 & 3 while leading the team in receptions in Week 2. Watching him play, he looked like an NFL starter. He looked like a halfback who can carry the load if called upon.

Given the injury history of this position for this team and the heavy emphasis that is going to be placed on dominating the trenches, I am truly excited for what’s in store for DeeJay Dallas this upcoming season.