What we learned from the Seahawks week 1 victory over Denver

Seahawks cornerbacks will not be this defense’s Achilles heel

Forgive me, Lord, for ever doubting Pete Carroll’s ability to evaluate cornerbacks. Sans Artie Burns and Tre Brown, perhaps both presumptive starters, Seattle plugged in rookie Tariq Woolen and journeyman Michael Jackson to great effect.

Jackson recovered two fumbles and put on a display of physicality that left a few Broncos receivers dazed and confused, while Woolen looked like a future stud, holding star wideout Courtland Sutton in check, sometimes literally, for most of the game.

Woolen’s length and speed is a combination of traits even the great Richard Sherman didn’t possess, and Sherman’s tutelage of Woolen is obvious when watching Woolen’s physicality and willingness to drape himself over his assignment. Look for Woolen to perhaps snag a permanent starting role, moving Tre Brown to nickel, where most experts had projected him when he was drafted out of Oklahoma last year.

Elsewhere, Coby Bryant had the aforementioned gaffe that would sit him down for most of the rest of the night but was mere inches from turning said gaffe into a great play. Look for him to turn it around as the season wears on and eventually compete for a starting spot again, especially as Justin Coleman continues to play himself out of snaps.