Competition appears to favor George Holani over Damien Martinez in Seattle Seahawks training camp
Seahawks' George Holani Shines in Preseason, Emerges as Dependable Backup
In the Seattle Seahawks' 2025 preseason, George Holani has stolen the spotlight, outperforming some higher-drafted players, including Ashton Jeanty.
The opening preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders saw Holani rush for 61 yards and score a 24-yard touchdown on seven carries. This was in stark contrast to Jeanty's performance in the same game. Against the Kansas City Chiefs in a later preseason game, Holani continued to impress, gaining 49 rushing yards on five carries and adding 73 yards on kickoff returns, showcasing his versatility and big-play ability.
Holani's impressive preseason performances have positioned him as a notable depth option in the Seahawks' backfield behind starters Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet. Despite his strong showing, Holani's role is expected to be limited as long as Walker and Charbonnet remain healthy, with the team likely to keep only three running backs on their initial 53-man roster.
The Seahawks' decision to reintroduce the fullback to their offense and draft Robbie Ouzts in the fifth round could also impact Holani's role.
Coach Mike Macdonald has praised Holani's performance, describing him as a well-rounded player who does everything right all the time. Holani's hard work during training camp and his strong preseason performances have earned him the first reps at running back in the preseason opener when Walker III and Charbonnet sat out.
Second-year running back Holani also made a tackle on a kickoff in the preseason opener. Despite Kenneth Walker III's foot injury, which has limited his participation in practices, Holani is expected to get ample work in the Seahawks' second preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Unfortunately, the team has suffered a setback with the season-ending ACL injury to Kenny McIntosh. However, Holani's preseason success has raised his prospects on the Seahawks roster, highlighting him as a reliable and dynamic backup running back and kick returner.
Continued preseason success and health will be key for Holani to enhance his role further during the regular season. Despite his impressive performances, Holani is not currently projected to be a primary offensive weapon, given the established backfield.
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