SEATTLE – When his chance finally arrived, Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Cody White made sure to seize it.
In his first NFL game in almost two years, after being promoted from the Seahawks’ practice squad, White impressed both coaches and teammates during Seattle’s 26-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. He contributed with a blocked punt and two receptions for 44 yards.
White’s block on Rams punter Ty Zentner set up the Seahawks at the Rams’ 19-yard line with 8:44 left in the game.
Although the Seahawks lost, they were excited for White. He had been moved to the active roster to replace DK Metcalf, who was sidelined with an MCL sprain for a second consecutive game.
Since joining the Seahawks last October, the 6-foot-3, 225-pound White had earned praise for his performance in practice.
“We expected that from Cody,” said quarterback Geno Smith. “He’s been doing that since he got here. Hard worker, one of the hardest workers on the team. He deserves it. He deserves to go out there and make those plays. He’s always prepared.”
White had spent two seasons with Pittsburgh after a stellar college career at Michigan State. Undrafted in 2020, he had stints with Kansas City, the New York Giants, and Denver before joining the Steelers. Over 16 games with Pittsburgh in 2021 and 2022, White made six catches for 35 yards. The Steelers released him last August, and though he didn’t play in 2023, he remained ready for an opportunity.
White was ecstatic when he finally made his first reception with the Seahawks, connecting with Smith for the long-awaited catch.
“Since I stepped into the building, I’ve felt like I’ve done a great job with every opportunity I’ve gotten,” White said. “I just keep stacking those and figuring out ways to help the team win.”
In addition to his two catches in the fourth quarter, a 28-yarder and a 16-yarder, White’s blocked punt caught the attention of Seahawks fans. He credited a block from Jake Bobo and the plan set by special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh for enabling him to make the play.
“They told me what to do on the sideline, and I went out there and figured it out,” White said. “I practiced that every day, so I felt prepared.”
Although White’s time on the active roster was brief—he was returned to the practice squad on Monday—the Seahawks have seen players like cornerback Josh Jobe earn more playing time after strong performances. White could potentially see more action if he continues to show his abilities.
“I’m glad he had the chance to show what he can do,” said coach Mike Macdonald. “The guys were fired up for him. It shows the depth of our team. We have the right guys, just need to give them the opportunity. This guy plays extremely hard.”
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