Seahawks Watch: Avril vs. Earl in 'Sunflower Seed' Conflict

Originally posted on FanNation Seahawk Maven
By Harrison Reno | Last updated 7/12/23

The Seattle Seahawks "Legion of Boom" era will forever go down as a fan favorite, not only because of the Super Bowl they won. ... But also because of the players and coaches involved that made the teams what they were. From Richard Sherman and Kam Chancellor to Earl Thomas and Brandon Browner, the "LOB" era of the Seahawks' defense was filled with Hall of Fame talent.

As you can imagine, during the success of these Seahawks teams, there are a wealth of stories behind the scenes that can give fans a little insight into why they were so special.

One story was recently revealed by ex-Seahawks defensive linemen Cliff Avril during his appearance on the "K.J. All Day" podcast, hosted by former teammate KJ Wright. During this podcast episode, Avril told the "Sunflower seeds story," which featured a blow-up between him and a then-young Earl Thomas.

“ FINALLY!!! The sunflower seeds story” https://t.co/KVrFRnY6Tu pic.twitter.com/nKZxEhL7wc
— KJ (@KJ_WRIGHT34) July 11, 2023

"I think we had just lost to Kansas City ... E.T. (Earl Thomas) was intense all the time. Walk-throughs, he's full speed," Avril said. "I don't know what I did other than pop another sunflower seed and spit it back into my cup, and he just, out of nowhere, starts spazzing. ...

'Put them damn sunflower seeds up! Take that losing stuff back to Detroit!' Oh man, just going in! Mind you; this is only like Year 2 or 3 for him; I'm like Year 6, and like, 'Who the hell are you talking to, bruh?!'"

Thomas' release from the Ravens in August of 2020 was the last time he was signed to an NFL roster after enjoying a possible Hall-of-Fame career in Seattle for his first nine seasons.

Thomas made a career out of being a do-it-all safety. The former Texas Longhorns totaled 28 interceptions, 67 passes defended, 11 forced fumbles, and five fumble recoveries over 125 games in Seattle.

The ending to his career has called into question whether he will eventually be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Yet, even if he isn't, 12s will likely always remember Earl Thomas for the part he played in the LOB. And Cliff Avril will always remember those sunflower seeds.

This article first appeared on FanNation Seahawk Maven and was syndicated with permission.

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