November 7, 2024

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Seahawks edge rusher L.J. Collier expected to make…


Now that training camp is in full swing, L.J. Collier is looking to show why the Seahawks used their first-round pick on a defensive end.

Quietly, Seattle has invested a large amount of time into Collier’s development. The team thinks he can make an immediate impact on the defensive line. Defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. had plenty of positive things to say about the rookie during his press conference on Monday.

“The kid is big, strong, fast, just like we expected,” Norton said. “He loves ball. I think that he’s really getting comfortable with his environment now, and he’s certainly going to help us.”

Collier’s comfort with the Seahawks defense will be vital this season. He and fellow newcomer Ezekiel Ansah, as well as the recently returned Cassius Marsh, will likely assume the brunt of the pass-rushing duties after the recent suspension of Jarran Reed and offseason trade of Frank Clark to the Chiefs.

This year’s unit will try to match the high bar that Clark and Reed set in 2018 as they combined for 23.5 sacks.

Monday’s practice, the Seahawks’ first in pads, allowed Collier to show what he could do in one-on-one pass-rush drills. Twice, he challenged left tackle Jamarcus Jones with a full-speed-ahead approach, prompting defensive line coach Clint Hurtt to jump in with some pointers. Left tackle Duane Brown also had some friendly advice for Collier, taking around a minute to provide him with a veteran’s perspective on his game.

Collier appears to be embracing his new role as a Seahawk, taking to Twitter on Monday afternoon to provide a shout-out to the loyal fans attending the practice. “Let’s go, 12s,” he says in the video, beaming as the spectators cheer behind him. “It’s a great day at camp.”

Seahawks edge rusher L.J. Collier expected to make big impact