Pete Carroll’s Emotional Return Headlines Seahawks’ Preseason Clash
The preseason opener at Lumen Field is set to feel a little different this year. Sure, on paper, it’s just another August game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Las Vegas Raiders, but when Pete Carroll walks back onto that Seattle sideline — even if it’s wearing silver and black — the air will shift. Carroll, the man who spent 14 seasons building the Seahawks into Super Bowl champions and the most successful era in team history, is now leading the Raiders. And right beside him? Geno Smith, the quarterback who revived his career in Seattle and became a two-time Pro Bowler before being traded to Las Vegas earlier this year.
Also Read:The 12s are expected to bring the noise, but this time, some of it will be in appreciation rather than intimidation. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald has already said the home crowd should cheer Carroll and Smith. After all, Carroll delivered the franchise’s first Lombardi Trophy, and Smith gave the team steady leadership after the Russell Wilson era. Of course, once the ball is snapped, it’s all business — but the handshakes, hugs, and nods of respect before kickoff will be hard to miss.
On the field, the spotlight for Seattle will shift quickly to the future. Rookie quarterback Jalen Milroe, acquired in the trade that sent Smith to Las Vegas, is expected to get plenty of snaps. Coaches have been thrilled with his steady improvement in camp — showing off both a big arm and the kind of running ability that made him a nightmare for defenses in college. Thursday will be the first time fans see him tested at game speed.
Several other rookies will get extended playing time, including first-round pick Grey Zabel at left guard, safety Nick Emmanwori, and tight end Elijah Arroyo. Wide receiver Tory Horton, who also brings return-game experience from college, could get his shot on special teams, especially with veteran Steve Sims dealing with an injury.
On defense, the absence of Uchenna Nwosu opens the door for young edge rushers to make a statement. Players like Tyreke Smith and Mike Morris will have the chance to prove they can fill the gap in the rotation. Meanwhile, competition is still brewing on the offensive line, particularly at center and right guard, where Olu Oluwatimi and Anthony Bradford are trying to lock down starting roles.
For fans, it’s more than just a scoreline. It’s a chance to welcome back familiar faces, glimpse the team’s future leaders, and watch the early pieces of Mike Macdonald’s Seahawks take shape. The history, the reunions, the fresh talent — it’s all wrapped up in one August night under the lights at Lumen Field. Preseason or not, it’s going to mean something.
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