SEATTLE — Recently, Josh Jobe, a cornerback for the Seattle Seahawks, has seized his chance to shine on the team. Over the last two weeks, the 26-year-old has made a significant impact during his first two games, demonstrating strong performances after initially starting the season on the practice squad.
As he steps into a potential starter role, head coach Mike Macdonald has described the cornerback position as a competitive one, particularly with Tre Brown returning from an ankle injury. Although Brown was on the roster during the game against Buffalo, he did not take the field.
Riq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon currently hold the top spots as the primary cornerbacks. Coach Macdonald emphasized the importance of consistency in practice, noting that this is crucial for gaining trust from coaches and teammates alike. “Stacking a lot of great practice reps, starts to flash, and if you want to play, that’s kind of how it works,” he explained.
Jobe, who was part of Alabama’s national championship winning team in 2020 and had previously excelled on special teams with the Philadelphia Eagles, impressed with six tackles and two passes defended in his debut with the Seahawks against Atlanta on October 20. He followed that performance by securing a career milestone: an interception of quarterback Josh Allen during last Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills, marking Jobe’s first interception in the NFL.
“It was a big interception for me, first of my career, I was pretty excited,” Jobe expressed. He acknowledged Allen’s skills as a quarterback but insisted that he executed perfect technique to achieve this significant play.
Despite some challenges, including being targeted during the game where his coverage allowed a 35-yard reception to Khalil Shakir, Jobe has demonstrated enough talent to solidify his presence on the field. Linebacker Tyrel Dodson recognized Jobe’s ability to maximize his opportunities, commending his efforts and performance.
After being released by the Eagles in August, Jobe joined the Seahawks practice squad, where he quickly made a positive impression. His standout play prompted the coaching staff to give him the chance to fill in for Brown against Atlanta when needed.
Macdonald highlighted the impact Jobe has made during practice, pointing out that his playmaking abilities have raised the team’s competitive level. The decision regarding who will start against the Los Angeles Rams will be made by Friday, depending on which player shows the most in practice. Coach Macdonald expressed confidence in Jobe, Brown, and rookie Nehemiah Pritchett as viable options.
Even though Jobe has begun to establish himself within the squad, he does not feel that he has fully proven his worth just yet. As an undrafted player who was once on the practice squad, he understands the need to maintain his focus and determination. “It’s an honor to be in that position,” he acknowledged. His aim is to continue working hard and competing every day, as he knows each practice is an opportunity to secure his spot on the team.