Since being taken in the fifth round of this year's draft by the Seattle Seahawks, rookie linebacker Shaquem Griffin continued=s to make a strong impression on the coaching staff.
Griffin has pushed himself and will now start start Week 1 against the Denver Broncos in place of Pro Bowl linebacker K.J. Wright, who is recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery that will force him to miss the next several weeks, according to Andrew Siciliano of The NFL Network.
Pete Carroll says rookie Shaquem Griffin starts in place of the injured KJ Wright Week 1.
— Andrew Siciliano (@AndrewSiciliano) September 5, 2018
Throughout training camp and the preseason, Griffin has made a strong impression on the Seahawks with his play on the field. He has been a huge bright spot for their defense that has seen him garner 18 tackles over three preseason games, including a team-best nine in the first preseason tilt. He is a capable defender that has the ability to get to the ball quickly while providing stability to the second level of the defense.
Griffin has completely exceeded expectations after being drafted as a late-round pick. Griffin put himself on the map with his strong showing in the NFL Combine, creating much buzz around his NFL prospects. Now he has an opportunity to play alongside his older brother, Shaquill Griffin, who has been one of the team's starting cornerbacks over the last couple of years. The younger Griffin has taken the full advantage of his increased role, putting him in position to etch a significant role even after Wright returns from his injury.
This will all hinge on his performance as the starter over the next couple of weeks, possibly cementing his spot on the defense as the season rolls along.
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