Woolen on the Tightrope: Will He Lose His Starting Spot with the Seahawks?
The Seattle Seahawks’ defeat in the season opener has cast doubt on the starting position of Riq Woolen, the team’s star cornerback, due to costly mistakes made during the game. The situation is complicated by the good performance of Josh Jobe, who could be ready to take on a more prominent role. Coach Mike Macdonald has hinted that Jobe’s playing time could increase, possibly at the expense of Woolen. “We’ll see,” Macdonald commented when asked if Woolen would start against the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday. During the week, Macdonald praised Jobe’s “tremendous” performance in the first week against the San Francisco 49ers, suggesting a change in the team’s defensive strategy. Woolen made crucial errors on the 49ers’ winning play, allowing a 45-yard reception to Ricky Pearsall and the decisive touchdown to Jake Tonges.
According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Woolen allowed three receptions on four attempts, totaling 73 yards and a touchdown as the nearest defender in coverage, resulting in a passer rating against him of 156.3. Despite this, he managed to avoid a touchdown with a previous interception. On the other hand, Jobe had an outstanding performance, including one of the two interceptions by the Seahawks against Brock Purdy and allowing only one reception for one yard in five attempts. His playing time was greater than expected, with 61 of 76 defensive plays. Macdonald praised Jobe for his physical, intelligent, and disciplined play. “If you produce, why wouldn’t we put you in?”, added the coach. The possible reduction of Woolen’s role comes after a 2024 season with ups and downs. While his passer rating allowed was 78.7, and he achieved a key interception against the Chicago Bears, he also made critical mistakes at decisive moments in other games. Macdonald has emphasized the need for Woolen to stay focused on each play. Woolen expressed that he will abide by the coach’s decisions, no matter what they are. “He’s the boss, so what he says is law,” said Woolen. “For my part, I can continue to be Riq and continue to be a great player as I have done.” The Seahawks’ secondary is also facing injury problems. Devon Witherspoon did not participate in Wednesday’s practice due to a shoulder injury, while Julian Love was limited by a groin injury. The team will assess Nick Emmanwori’s situation during the week, who suffered a sprained ankle on the first play, to determine if he will be placed on the injured reserve list. Uchenna Nwosu, after undergoing knee surgery, fully participated in training after being limited last week.“I just have to attack the ball. That’s all,” Woolen affirmed.
