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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Justin Melo

Seahawks rookie LB Tyrice Knight took advantage of preseason Week 1 opportunity

Seattle Seahawks rookie linebacker Tyrice Knight took advantage of his sizable opportunity in Saturday’s 16-3 preseason victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Starting off-ball linebacker Jerome Baker missed the game with a hamstring injury. The other projected starter, Tyrel Dodson, was limited to six snaps. That catapulted Knight into a much larger role.

Knight played 30 snaps, which accounted for 57% of Seattle’s defensive plays on Saturday. The only linebacker that out-snapped him was fourth-year undrafted free agent Jon Rhattigan, who totaled 35 snaps. Knight was arguably Seattle’s best defender.

The No. 119 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, Knight was flying around sideline to sideline. The former UTEP standout was credited with making three solo tackles. Knight was Pro Football Focus’ highest-graded Seahawks defender, and their second-highest overall graded player. He earned an elite overall grade of 89.9 with a coverage score of 84.7 and a run defense score of 73.8.

Knight was targeted just in coverage and allowed a four yard reception. For a fifth-round rookie that was considered inexperienced in the 2024 draft, Knight did a fantastic job evading blockers in space and reaching ball carriers in the hole. His athleticism allows him to navigate tight spaces and make plays.

The expectation is that Baker will return to practice soon. There’s concern with his hamstring injury, which the Seahawks are approaching with caution because they tend to linger if not treated correctly. Baker was limited to 13 regular-season appearances last season, so there’s a bit of a recent history with injuries. If his issues persist, Knight appeared capable of filling in as necessary.

That depth is invaluable, especially coming from a Day Three rookie.

More Seahawks Wire stories

Seahawks win preseason debut 16-3 vs Chargers

NFC West Watch: how did the division handle the first preseason weekend?

New Seahawks C Connor Williams to wear No. 57

5 takeaways from Seattle’s preseason victory over the Chargers

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