When Seahawks wideout DK Metcalf went down with a knee injury in Sunday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, the offense needed someone to step up. And though it may be Year 9 for offseason acquisition Marquise Goodwin, but the former Texas Longhorn showed he still has elite athletic ability as he stepped up when his new team needed him most.
In Sunday's 37-23 road win over the Los Angeles Chargers, Goodwin made the most of his five targets from quarterback Geno Smith. The 2012 Olympian and 2015 Pan American Games silver medalist (Long Jump) showcased his record-breaking speed and uncanny athleticism as he caught four receptions for 67 yards and two touchdowns.
Those two scores were the first for Goodwin in a Seahawks jersey, and couldn't have come at a better time for a Seahawks team that, at 4-3, now leads the NFC West. Seattle has become a feel-good story for many across national media, with the success of formerly-unheralded quarterback Geno Smith and a terrific rookie class. Add in Goodwin, a player who's gotten the country to root for his Olympic aspirations as much as they have for him as a person.
Goodwin and college sweetheart-turned-wife Morgan have been tied at the hip since both were track stars for the Texas Longhorns. The couple made national headlines after the unfortunate loss of their son during labor while Goodwin was a member of the San Francisco 49ers in 2017. As the team prepared for their Week 10 matchup against the New York Giants, it was Morgan who forced her grieving husband to suit up and help his team. Goodwin did just that, scoring an 83-yard touchdown just hours after the loss of his son.
The Goodwin family has become a symbol of hope for many families dealing through child loss worldwide, thus gaining the wideout more supporters for his ability to persevere.
Seahawks Head Coach Pete Carroll shared his elation of Goodwin's performance following the win.
"I'm really excited for Marquise," said Carroll. "He came to us kind of late and had a great camp with us and then got kind of hampered a little bit, but showed great stuff. He's so explosive. I don't know how old he is, but he's still really, really fast and it shows on the field. He gives you a real boost and you can see it. He had a couple of terrific touchdowns today. Had a nice catch last week, as well. If DK is going to take a little bit to get back, he'll jump in, too. Overall, we really feel confident using him. He had a lot of fun playing today. It was exciting to see him help us out so much."
