Back in full pads for the first time in nearly three weeks, the Seahawks’ bell cow back looked ready to face the 49ers in Tuesday’s final open practice for fans, while an intriguing group of undrafted rookie defensive linemen led by Jared Ivey continue to make positive impressions.

While the Seahawks will have the vast majority of their key players on defense back from last season, it was a veteran newcomer who had all eyes gravitating towards him as the team kicked off their 50th training camp.

Few teams have invested more in the running back position than the Seahawks have in the past four years, but the on-field results haven’t matched those investments. The onus will fall on a new coaching staff and scheme to bring out the best in Ken Walker III and company in 2025.

In 2022, Ken Walker III burst onto the scene as one of the NFL’s most electric young backs for the Seahawks. But injuries and poor blocking led to significantly worse numbers the past two seasons, putting much at stake for him heading into the final year of his rookie contract.

With three veteran backs returning and an exciting rookie in Damien Martinez joining the mix, the Seahawks have as much talent at running back as any team in the NFC. But will that talent translate to better production in Klint Kubiak’s offense?

Already holding 10 picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Seahawks aren’t in a position where they have to force the issue trading veterans entering the final year of their contract. But if teams call, history shows John Schneider will be listening. Could a deal be on the horizon?

Adding another coach to the staff with prior ties to Klint Kubiak, the Seahawks continue to prioritize fixing their run game heading towards the 2025 season.