Seattle Seahawks strongmen: ‘Maybe it’s like an Auburn thing’

The Seattle Seahawks are looking to bolster their secondary, and offseason acquisition Noah Igbinoghene is already making a strong impression in the locker room. According to Seahawks safety Julian Love, the former Auburn standout has arrived with a fierce competitive spirit.

A New Competitor in Seattle

During a recent press conference, Love praised the intensity Igbinoghene brings to the team, specifically highlighting his work ethic in the weight room alongside outside linebacker Derick Hall. "He’s in the weight room lifting with Derick Hall, one of the strongest guys on the team, trying to just like one-up him," Love noted. "Maybe it’s like an Auburn thing, I don’t know."

Igbinoghene signed with the Seahawks in March on a one-year, $1.81 million contract. He joins a secondary room that is reloading following the departures of Coby Bryant and Riq Woolen.

Professional Maturity

Love added that Igbinoghene’s professionalism stands out during OTAs. "He brings the competition, he brings experience, he brings a maturity to him. He’s a pro. Like, he goes by his routine... you could see why he’s been rated as a high-caliber player."

Igbinoghene’s journey includes a productive 2025 campaign with the Washington Commanders, where he recorded 35 tackles, five passes defended, and the first sack of his professional career. Known for his versatility, he also showcased his return ability with 191 kickoff-return yards in a single game against the Detroit Lions last November.

A Storied Path

Before his NFL career began as the 30th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Igbinoghene was a multi-sport star at Hewitt-Trussville High School and a dynamic playmaker at Auburn. After stints with the Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys, Igbinoghene spent the 2024 season with Washington, playing a pivotal role as they reached the NFC Championship Game.

As the Seahawks look ahead, Igbinoghene is expected to provide key depth at nickelback behind Nick Emmanwori and compete alongside Alabama alumnus Josh Jobe and Devon Witherspoon at cornerback. While the team feels the loss of Bryant, Love remains optimistic about the depth and personality of the current group, noting, "Everyone’s trying to show what they got. And, yeah, the additions that we have in that room, I love it."

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