One of the most positive stories of the Seattle Seahawks‘ 2024 season was the play of safety Coby Bryant. After being limited to nine appearances as a sophomore in 2023, Bryant broke out of his shell this past campaign. The former Cincinnati standout became a midseason starter opposite Julian Love, enjoying a career-best season.
Bryant appeared in all 17 regular-season contests. totaling 786 defensive snaps, fourth-most on the team. He recorded personal-highs in every major category, accumulating 73 tackles, six pass breakups, and three interceptions. Bryant is now an unquestioned starter heading into 2025. Can he keep momentum going?
The Seahawks released Rayshawn Jenkins from his contract this season. Bryant had replaced Jenkins as a routine starter midway through 2024. The veteran’s release confirmed the obvious, that Bryant would be a full-time starter in 2025.
General manager John Schneider did add competition to the position though by drafting safety Nick Emmanwori in the second round. The Seahawks were borderline obsessed with Emmanwori as a prospect and aggressively traded up 17 spots to nab him during the second round.
Emmanwori is expected to play a diverse role in Seattle’s defense by moving all over Mike Macdonald’s scheme. His presence shouldn’t hurt Bryant, but there’s a scenario where he replaces him in two safety sets, should Bryant regress while the rookie is playing inspired football.
Bryant was a breakout performer for the Seahawks in 2024. The coaching staff possesses every reason to believe he’ll be equally as effective in 2025. Bryant is a keynote player heading into the 2025 campaign.