Seahawks star offers intense self-criticism for Week 1 performance in loss

The Seattle Seahawks were one of the NFL's most disappointing teams in Week 1 as they were blown out at home by the Los Angeles Rams, 30-13, despite the Rams being without their No. 1 wide receiver (Cooper Kupp). It was a dreadful showing, and nobody was happy about it.

That includes star wide receiver DK Metcalf who directed a lot of the blame at himself for his effort and lack of preparation for the game.

From the Seattle Times:

“I really can’t speak for everybody else’s, but my part was just effort. And play after play, just 100% effort, it wasn’t just there like it’s been in the past. So, I know that’s one thing I’ve got to clean up. And just playing as a team. When something goes wrong or adversity hits, we just can’t start pointing fingers or just looking around for somebody else to make a play or just to have an answer. Can’t look for the coaches. . . . I can’t tell you. I think it’s just an inward experience, a lack of preparation on my part. Just got to do a better job preparing during the week and knowing my job.”

That is some intense self-criticism from Metcalf, and it is not very common to hear a player be that honest about their effort.

Metcalf, one of the NFL's best and most physical wide receivers, was limited to just three catches on five targets for 47 yards and a touchdown. He also was at the center of an altercation with Ahkello Witherspoon when he delivered a late hit that resulted in the Rams corner suffering a rib and hip contusion.

Things are not going to get any easier for the Seahawks on Sunday when they have to travel to Detroit to play a Lions team that is quickly emerging as a contender in the NFC. It is obviously far too soon to be overly concerned, but an 0-2 start can be really difficult to overcome. 

Seattle went 9-8 a year ago, qualifying for the NFC playoffs, and is coming back this season with big expectations. The wide receiver room is one of the biggest reasons for optimism with Metcalf, Tyler Lockett and rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba forming what could be one of the best trios in the league. The key will be veteran quarterback Geno Smith to repeat what he did a year ago.

One thing the Seahawks should not have to worry about, though, is Metcalf having to call himself out for his lack of effort again. It simply not something he has been known for throughout his career, and the fact he was so critical of himself is a good sign he is not going to let that happen again.