Seahawks Name Captains Ahead of High-Stakes TNF Clash with Rams
The stakes don’t get much higher than this. Thursday Night Football brings the Seattle Seahawks to a pivotal moment-one that blends revenge, redemption, and a shot at the NFC’s top seed into one primetime showdown.
The opponent? None other than the Los Angeles Rams, a division rival with whom the Seahawks have some unfinished business.
This week’s matchup isn’t just about standings or playoff positioning-it’s a litmus test for where this Seattle team truly stands in the NFC hierarchy. And with that in mind, the Seahawks are turning to three key contributors-each representing a different phase of the game-to lead the charge as team captains: wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba on offense, linebacker Ernest Jones IV on defense, and kicker Jason Myers on special teams.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba: The Offensive Spark Plug
Let’s start with JSN. This marks his third time wearing the captain’s “C” this season, and it’s no mystery why.
In what’s quickly become a breakout campaign, Smith-Njigba has emerged as one of the league’s most electrifying receivers. He’s racked up 1,541 receiving yards-leading all players by a wide margin-and has been the engine of Seattle’s aerial attack for most of the year.
While his pace has cooled slightly in recent weeks, the talent is undeniable. He’s the kind of playmaker who can flip a game on its head with a single route, a single catch. And in a game where every possession could swing the outcome, he gives quarterback Sam Darnold a legitimate shot to make a statement.
Darnold’s recent history against the Rams-whether in a Vikings or Seahawks jersey-has been marred by turnovers. But when you’ve got a weapon like Smith-Njigba on your side, the path to redemption is a little clearer. Expect Seattle to lean heavily on their star wideout in this one.
Ernest Jones IV: The Defensive Anchor
On the defensive side, it’s Ernest Jones IV who gets the nod. This will be his fourth time serving as captain this season, and it’s a fitting honor for a player who’s been at the heart of Seattle’s defensive resurgence. Tied for second in the league in interceptions, Jones has been a ballhawk and a tone-setter-exactly what you want from your middle linebacker.
Jones brings extra fire to this matchup. Not only is he a former Ram, but he’s also become the emotional and physical leader of a linebacker group that’s been deeper and more productive than many expected.
With the Rams boasting a dangerous ground game, Jones will be tasked with clogging running lanes and keeping the defense disciplined. If Seattle is going to slow down L.A.’s offense, it starts with Jones in the middle.
Jason Myers: The Steady Foot with a Score to Settle
Then there’s Jason Myers, who might be the most underappreciated piece of this Seahawks puzzle. This is his first time being named captain this year, but the timing couldn’t be better.
Myers is coming off a heroic performance against the Colts, where he essentially carried the team with his leg. And now, he’s got a chance to rewrite the ending from the last Rams matchup.
In that earlier meeting, Myers missed a 61-yard attempt that would’ve won the game. Now, with the Seahawks eyeing the top seed in the NFC, he’s back in the spotlight-this time as a red-hot kicker on pace to break David Akers’ single-season field goal record. If this game comes down to special teams-and it very well might-Seattle’s got the right man for the moment.
A Defining Moment Ahead
This isn’t just another Thursday night game. It’s a defining moment for a Seahawks team that has battled its way into the NFC’s elite conversation. With familiar foes standing in the way, and the postseason picture coming into focus, Seattle is turning to three players who have earned their stripes all year long.
Smith-Njigba, Jones, and Myers aren’t just captains-they’re tone-setters. And if the Seahawks are going to exorcise some demons and take control of their playoff destiny, it’ll be on the backs of these leaders to set the tone early and often.
Get your popcorn ready. This one’s got all the makings of a classic.