While the Seahawks will have the vast majority of their key players on defense back from last season, it was a veteran newcomer who had all eyes gravitating towards him as the team kicked off their 50th training camp.

Returning the vast majority of their starters and key reserves from last season, the Seahawks will have heightened expectations on defense in year two under Mike Macdonald. But plenty of questions remain for the unit heading into camp.

Speculated as a cap casualty prior to free agency in March, the Seahawks opted to keep Noah Fant, suggesting they had a role in mind for him in Klint Kubiak’s offense. So why is he suddenly leaving town two days before training camp?

Few teams have invested more in the running back position than the Seahawks have in the past four years, but the on-field results haven’t matched those investments. The onus will fall on a new coaching staff and scheme to bring out the best in Ken Walker III and company in 2025.

As expected, the Seahawks will open training camp without fifth-round pick Rylie Mills able to practice, but several other undrafted rookies also will be sidelined indefinitely.

In terms of pure talent, the Seahawks stack up favorably against any other team in the league with Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen atop the depth chart. But can the duo elevate the group to another level in year two in Mike Macdonald’s scheme?

Jalen Sundell wasn’t even on the roster until late July and Cody White looked to be on the outside looking in at receiver for the Seahawks, but both wound up surprising in training camp and seeing action in regular season games. Which dark horses could emerge this year?

Undergoing a full-scale retool at quarterback this offseason, the Seahawks have put their faith in Sam Darnold to take the franchise to the next level, while a potential future starter begins developing in the wings.