The Seattle Seahawks entered training camp with a blend of optimism and uncertainty, particularly regarding the health of some of their key players. One of the most closely monitored storylines revolved around the status of left tackle Charles Cross, the 2022 first-round pick whose presence on the offensive line has been critical to the team’s performance since his arrival. Over the past few days, reports out of camp have painted a much brighter picture than some feared, as the Seahawks have received a positive injury update that suggests Cross could be on track for a stronger, more productive season than many anticipated following his recent setback. This development not only boosts the team’s outlook in the trenches but also reinforces the front office’s belief in their young cornerstone at one of football’s most demanding positions.
Cross’s early career has been a blend of promise and challenges, as is often the case for young offensive linemen adapting to the speed, power, and complexity of NFL defenses. Drafted ninth overall out of Mississippi State, Cross was expected to be the long-term answer at left tackle—a position that demands both physical dominance and mental acuity. His rookie year showcased flashes of that potential, as he displayed quick footwork, strong pass protection fundamentals, and an ability to anchor against some of the league’s top edge rushers. However, injuries and the natural growing pains of transitioning from a pass-heavy college system to the NFL’s more varied offensive schemes meant his development was never completely linear.
This offseason, the focus had been on strengthening his base, improving his hand placement, and refining his ability to handle complex stunt packages and blitz looks—areas that gave him trouble at times during his first two seasons. However, a nagging lower-body injury slowed his participation in OTAs and minicamp, raising concerns about whether he would enter training camp at full strength. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald and the training staff adopted a cautious approach, limiting his reps early in camp to avoid aggravating the issue. While this was the prudent course of action, it also fueled speculation among fans and media that Cross might be at risk of missing valuable preparation time heading into the season.
That narrative shifted dramatically with the latest update. Cross not only returned to more active participation in camp drills but reportedly looked fluid in his movements, displayed the lateral quickness that makes him so effective in pass sets, and handled 11-on-11 team periods without any visible discomfort. Observers noted that he was able to plant and anchor against bull rushes, a critical test for any offensive tackle recovering from a lower-body ailment. This suggests that his rehab program has been successful and that the Seahawks’ cautious approach earlier in the summer has paid off.
From an organizational perspective, having Cross healthy is more than just about protecting quarterback Geno Smith’s blindside—it’s about continuity and confidence for the entire offense. Offensive line cohesion is notoriously difficult to build, and the left tackle spot is its cornerstone. When Cross is on the field, offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb can call plays with the assurance that the most critical pass-protection assignment is in capable hands. This allows the offense to take more deep shots downfield, utilize more play-action concepts, and avoid having to dedicate extra blockers to his side—freeing up tight ends and running backs for other roles in the offense.
Moreover, the positive update on Cross reverberates beyond the passing game. Seattle’s run game, which they hope to feature prominently with Kenneth Walker III and rookie Zach Charbonnet, relies heavily on strong blocking at the point of attack and the ability to seal the edge on outside zone plays. Cross’s mobility and technique make him an asset in these schemes, as he can reach the second level to neutralize linebackers or set the edge to spring long runs. When he’s absent or compromised, the Seahawks’ run game tends to become more predictable and easier for defenses to contain.
For Cross himself, this is a critical juncture in his career trajectory. Entering his third season, the former Bulldog is no longer just a promising young player—he’s becoming a veteran presence in the room, expected to set the tone for younger linemen and deliver consistent performance every week. While the injury earlier this summer could have disrupted that momentum, his apparent quick recovery now allows him to focus fully on sharpening his technique and building chemistry with the rest of the line before Week 1.
One subtle but important benefit of his return to health is the leadership component. In recent interviews, fellow linemen and coaches have spoken about Cross’s growing vocal presence, noting that he’s more comfortable calling out defensive alignments, communicating pre-snap adjustments, and mentoring younger players. These are traits that don’t always show up in stat sheets but are invaluable over the course of a long, grueling NFL season. A fully engaged Cross, both physically and mentally, strengthens the line not just through his blocking but through his influence on the group’s cohesion and confidence.
The timing of this update is also significant given the Seahawks’ early-season schedule. Seattle faces several formidable defensive fronts in the opening weeks, including the San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, and Detroit Lions—all of whom boast elite pass rushers who can wreak havoc if given an opening. Having Cross at full strength dramatically improves the Seahawks’ chances of neutralizing these threats and keeping Geno Smith upright. It also helps the coaching staff avoid having to shuffle the line, which often leads to communication breakdowns and missed assignments.
Fans who attended the most recent open practice left encouraged by what they saw from Cross. His footwork in one-on-one drills against the team’s top edge rushers was sharp, and his ability to mirror quick moves off the snap was evident. In full-team periods, he looked comfortable handling speed-to-power moves, showing the balance and core strength that made him such a coveted prospect. While the team will likely continue to manage his workload to ensure he’s 100% for the regular season, the fact that he’s participating in meaningful reps at this stage of camp is a clear indication that he’s trending in the right direction.
The broader implications of this news extend to the Seahawks’ entire competitive outlook for 2025. In a tightly contested NFC West where margins are razor-thin, the health of a key player like Cross can be the difference between making a playoff run and struggling to stay afloat. His ability to protect Smith, open lanes for the running game, and provide stability to the offensive line is central to the Seahawks’ offensive identity. The front office invested heavily in him with the expectation that he would be the franchise’s answer at left tackle for years to come, and this latest update suggests that investment is poised to pay dividends this season.
Of course, injuries are an ever-present risk in the NFL, and the Seahawks will need to remain vigilant in managing Cross’s workload and ensuring that any lingering soreness doesn’t flare up again. Depth along the offensive line will remain important, as the team has learned in past seasons how quickly injuries can derail an otherwise promising campaign. Still, the mood around the team is noticeably more upbeat with this latest development, and the sense of relief among both coaches and fans is palpable.
For now, the focus shifts to the remainder of training camp and the preseason, where Cross will continue to ramp up his workload and refine his technique. The Seahawks’ offensive line will be tested against a variety of defensive looks, and Cross’s presence will be a key factor in how well they perform. If he continues to progress at this pace, there’s every reason to believe that he can not only return to his rookie-year form but surpass it, taking a significant step toward becoming one of the premier left tackles in the league.
In a sport where success is often dictated by the battle in the trenches, the Seahawks just received a major boost. The encouraging news on Charles Cross’s recovery not only solidifies their offensive line heading into the season but also serves as a reminder of the impact one player’s health can have on an entire team’s fortunes. For Seattle, it’s a development worth celebrating—and one that could very well shape the course of their 2025 campaign.
