Seattle Seahawks
Previously, ChurchLeaders wrote about the Christian backgrounds and testimonies of Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, linebacker Ernest Jones IV, wide receiver Cooper Kupp, and offensive lineman Abraham Lucas.
On Jan. 25, after winning the NFC Championship Game, Smith-Njigba gave an inspiring on-field interview. “I just want to give all the glory to God,” the third-year pro told Erin Andrews of Fox Sports. “Without [God], I’m nothing,” he added. “I just want to give [God] all the glory.”
These Seattle players and coaches also are vocal about their faith in Jesus:
5. Brady Russell
For the Seahawks, the versatile Brady Russell has played tight end, fullback, and special teams. The 27-year-old outspoken Christian committed his life to Jesus as a sophomore at the University of Colorado. “I felt like I was half-in, half-out on the Lord,” he recalled. “I trusted him to save me, but I didn’t trust him to lead my life yet.” It’s by grace, Russell said, that God “brought me to him.”
The outdoorsman credits his faith with keeping him upbeat and energized. When people ask Russell why he’s so happy, the athlete cites the zeal and spiritual fervor mentioned in Romans 12:11.
Russell, who listens to worship music before games, said it’s important to surrender to God and to have faith mentors. On social media, he posts Scripture verses and inspiring quotes, including this from “The Ragamuffin Gospel” by Brennan Manning: “The disciple living by grace rather than law has undergone a decisive conversion—a turning from mistrust to trust. The foremost characteristic of living by grace is trust in the redeeming work of Jesus Christ.”
