The Seattle Seahawks signed running back Eddie Lacy to a one-year prove it deal in free agency. He was brought on board to compete with fellow back Thomas Rawls and to revive a Seahawks run game that finished 25th in the league last year.
But between the two backs, it has been Rawls that has been dazzling in practices. The third-year running back is reportedly “flying around the field,” according to Gregg Bell of The News Tribune, who also said Rawls “looks duly motivated” by the addition of Lacy.
Per the report, Rawls is the first one to every drill, sprinting around during carries and catches. He is very enthusiastic and has been seen giving double high-fives to the other running backs and offensive linemen.
Lacy’s presence on the team seems to be lighting a spark under Rawls. Since the team signed Rawls as an undrafted free agent in 2015, he has dealt multiple and lingering injuries. Last year his overall production tanked when he managed only 3.2 yards per carry and scored just three touchdowns throughout nine games.
If Rawls continues to thrive in practices as Bell has witnessed, he will give Lacy some tight competition once training camp rolls around. Meanwhile, Lacy will need to keep up and not lose to the battle of the bulge as he did with the Green Bay Packers last year.