RENTON, Wash. – As the Seattle Seahawks dive into the new season, there’s a palpable buzz surrounding the team and its new offensive coordinator, Ryan Grubb. Known for leading one of college football’s most prolific passing attacks at Washington, Grubb made waves when he walked into his first team meeting and set the tone for his offensive philosophy. Star receiver DK Metcalf, who was eager to see how Grubb’s strategy would play out in the NFL, was initially caught off guard by Grubb’s emphasis on running the ball.
“Our run game, we’re going to run the ball downhill and make the defense stop our run first,” Metcalf recalled Grubb saying. This declaration came as a surprise to Metcalf, considering Grubb’s reputation for slinging the ball with great success in college. While Grubb’s previous teams at Washington finished in the lower ranks in rushing yards, he did maintain a strong running game that complemented his potent aerial assault. Despite being ranked 106th in rushing yards per game last season, his running backs were able to find success, with notable performances from Dillon Johnson, who rushed for over 1,000 yards and scored 16 touchdowns.
The Seahawks boast a talented roster with a top-tier receiving group, including Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba. With talented receivers at his disposal and seasoned quarterback Geno Smith under center, many believe the Seahawks should utilize their exceptional receiving talent. However, with talented young running backs like Ken Walker III and Zach Charbonnet in the fold, a balanced approach could help create openings in opposing defenses.
Metcalf expressed some frustration initially but later acknowledged that establishing a solid run game could benefit everyone on the offensive side. “I kind of got mad really quick,” he noted about Grubb’s insistence on running the ball. But he understands that a strong run foundation could unlock more opportunities for him and his receiving teammates.
The 26-year-old wideout, coming off a season where he surpassed 1,000 receiving yards, recognizes that his role can extend beyond just making catches. He stated, “It just comes down to just trying to win the game and doing whatever it takes to win,” showing his commitment to the team’s success, whether that’s blocking or catching passes. As the Seahawks prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how Grubb blends his college strategies with the NFL’s fast-paced game and how Metcalf and the offense adapt to these changes.
