Seahawks rookie G Christian Haynes shines in preseason debut

Seattle Seahawks rookie offensive guard Christian Haynes played a sizable role in Saturday’s 16-3 preseason Week 1 win over the Los Angeles Chargers. The former UConn standout was the Seahawks’ fourth-most snapped offensive lineman, totaling 41 snaps, which accounted for 50% of all Seahawks offensive plays. Haynes put forth an outstanding performance, passing his first in-game test with flying colors.

Haynes played both left and right guard, displaying the type of positional versatility that Seattle’s coaching staff covets. Haynes routinely exploded off the ball and executed his assignments. The Seahawks were dominant on the ground thanks to terrific performances by reserve offensive linemen that helped pave the way for 156 rushing yards.

Pro Football Focus assigned Haynes a stellar pass protection grade of 66.1. He was credited with allowing just one pressure and zero quarterback hits or sacks. Haynes played with terrific discipline as he was not whistled for a single penalty. His run blocking grade was an above average 62.8.

Entering Saturday, Haynes had received some opportunities as the starting right guard with the first-team offense at training camp. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald should be even more intrigued to see Haynes run with the ones at practice this week. The third-round rookie appears capable of maximizing his opportunities.

With the Seahawks traveling to Nashville for joint practices with the Tennessee Titans on Wednesday and Thursday, Haynes could be provided an opportunity. He should test his readiness versus Titans defensive linemen such as Jeffery Simmons and fellow rookie T’Vondre Sweat. If Haynes holds his own, he could truly start pushing Anthony Bradford for the starting right guard job.