There has been a lot of talk about Seattle Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen lately. That is because he has been rather newsworthy during training camp!
In his rookie debut of 2022, Woolen took the league by storm. He was tied for the league lead in interceptions with six, started all 17 games and recorded 63 total tackles. However, he did take a bit of a step back with a sophomore slump. One where he had only two interceptions, ten less tackles, and was even benched at one point.
But it’s all good, according to Woolen. He was recently asked about his second year in the league, and he gave a rather insightful answer. One that says a lot about his mentality and maturity on the situtation.
“Honestly, I had fun,” said Woolen. “It was part of the hourney. I’ve been through ups and downs. I’ve been to the Pro Bowl. I’ve been on the bench before. It was just all part of the hourney to me. I felt like as a young player I had to go through that just because it shows me that there’s some places that I don’t want to be and there’s places where I do want to be. That’s being a Pro Bowler, that’s to help my team get to the Super Bowl and just be a great player.
Honestly, I just felt like last year was a great year for me. To some people, they may have their own opinions but those are the same people that’s not playing the game. So, it’s okay with me. I feel great and I feel like this year will be even better.”
Quite frankly, this response did impress me. It would be all too easy for a younger player to respond to a “down” season with negativity. Instead, he’s approaching it with the best possible mindset.
Oh, I say “down” season, because even in his regression he still managed to make it on the NFL Top 100 Players list at No. 91 overall.
The 12th Man should start to feel a lot more confident about what Woolen can bring back to the table in 2024.
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