From Storrs to the Super Bowl: Christian Haynes Carries UConn Pride to the NFL’s Biggest Stage
Christian Haynes is about to walk onto the biggest stage in football, and he’s doing it with a whole lot of Husky pride behind him.
The former UConn offensive lineman, now with the Seattle Seahawks, is set to play in the Super Bowl this Sunday night. It’s a massive moment not just for Haynes, but for the UConn football program that helped shape his journey. And make no mistake-this journey wasn’t built overnight.
Haynes spent six years with the Huskies, suiting up in games over five seasons. He got his first taste of college football back in 2018 with a pair of appearances, then saw more consistent action in 2019. After the program sat out the COVID-impacted 2020 season, Haynes returned to anchor the offensive line from 2021 through 2023, starting 12 games in each of those three seasons.
During his time in Storrs, Haynes played under three different head coaches-Randy Edsall, Lou Spanos, and Jim Mora-navigating a program in transition while steadily developing into a pro-ready lineman. His most successful season came in 2022, when the Huskies won six games, the most during his tenure. That year marked a turning point for both Haynes and the team, as UConn began to show signs of life after some tough seasons.
Fast forward to the 2024 NFL Draft, and Haynes heard his name called in the third round by the Seahawks. As a rookie, he stepped right into the mix, playing in 16 games and showing the kind of poise and power that had scouts buzzing during draft season. This year, he suited up for eight more games, helping Seattle not only navigate a tough NFC West but also secure the top seed in the NFC playoffs.
Back on campus, the UConn football program is rallying around their guy. In a video posted by the team, current players were asked who they think will win the Super Bowl-and a good number of them picked Seattle, proudly backing Haynes. It’s a small gesture, but one that shows just how much his rise means to the program.
Seattle’s Road to the Super Bowl
This Seahawks team looks a lot different than it did just a year ago. After a 10-win 2024 campaign that ended without a playoff berth, the front office hit the reset button. They traded quarterback Geno Smith, signed Sam Darnold, and made some bold moves at wide receiver-shipping out DK Metcalf and letting Tyler Lockett walk in free agency.
Instead of leaning on star power, Seattle rebuilt around rising talent like Jaxon Smith-Njigba and a steady, efficient ground game. They also made a change at offensive coordinator, parting ways with Ryan Grubb and bringing in Klint Kubiak-who’s now expected to take over as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders.
Through all that change, the Seahawks found their identity. And Haynes has been right in the middle of it, helping solidify an offensive line that’s given this team the foundation to make a deep playoff run.
How to Watch
Kickoff for the Super Bowl is set for 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday. You can catch the game on NBC and Peacock, with Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth on the call.
Around UConn Athletics
Men’s Basketball:
After dropping their first conference game of the season to St.
John’s on Friday, the UConn men’s basketball team is looking to bounce back on Wednesday night at Butler. Tip-off is at 7:30 p.m.
ET. The Huskies already have one win over Butler this season, and they’ll be aiming to get back on track before the new AP poll drops on Monday.
UConn, ranked No. 3 heading into the weekend, is expected to slide a bit but remains firmly in the national title conversation.
Olympic Spotlight:
The Winter Olympics are underway in Milano-Cortina, and UConn hockey alum Tage Thompson is suiting up for Team USA. The Americans are considered one of the top contenders for gold, and they’ll open play on Thursday, Feb. 12 against Latvia.
Women’s Basketball:
The UConn women’s team made history on Saturday with a dominant win over Butler, delivering a performance that hasn’t been seen in decades. The Huskies continue to set the standard in women’s college basketball, combining elite talent with a relentless drive to win.
From the hardwood to the gridiron, it’s been a big week for UConn athletes past and present. But all eyes this Sunday will be on Christian Haynes, a Husky who’s earned his shot at football immortality.