Tory Horton breaks Seahawks’ opening drive touchdown drought against Steelers
Tory Horton played a pivotal role in the Seattle Seahawks’ victory, marking a significant milestone in his rookie campaign. The young wide receiver not only showcased his talent but also helped the team end a frustrating 22-game stretch without a touchdown on their opening drive. This was a feat last accomplished by DK Metcalf, who now dons the colors of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
A Long-Awaited Accomplishment
Horton’s moment came during the Seahawks’ first drive against the Steelers, where he found the end zone, igniting the crowd and his teammates alike. The last time Seattle had scored on an opening drive was back on December 10, 2023, when Metcalf caught a touchdown pass. The irony was palpable, as Metcalf, who had been a cornerstone for the Seahawks, was now on the opposing sideline.
A Smart Play Design
The touchdown play illustrated Horton’s awareness and skill. He sprinted down the middle of the field, evading defenders before making a sharp right turn, leaving him wide open for quarterback Sam Darnold. With the defense preoccupied with Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Darnold delivered a precise 21-yard pass to Horton, who executed the catch flawlessly. This moment not only highlighted Horton’s potential but also marked a turning point for the Seahawks’ offensive strategy.
From Underdog to Star
Horton’s journey to the NFL was anything but conventional. The fifth-round pick was the lowest-drafted wide receiver to start in Week 1, but his college career laid a solid foundation for his professional aspirations. He began at Nevada, where he made a mark with a 52-catch season, leading him to transfer to Colorado State.
During his time with the Rams, Horton emerged as a standout player, leading the Mountain West Conference in receiving yards in his first year with 1,131 yards on 71 receptions and eight touchdowns. His second season saw him dominate again with 96 catches, amassing 1,136 yards and another eight touchdowns.
Despite a challenging 2024 season where he played only six games due to injuries, catching 26 passes for 353 yards and one touchdown, the Seahawks recognized his potential. His impressive 4.41-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, coupled with a vertical leap of 37.5 inches, further solidified his draft stock.
A Bright Future Ahead
Now, with his inaugural touchdown catch under his belt, Horton has the opportunity to build on this success. The Seahawks have found a promising talent in him, and fans can expect more electrifying performances as he continues to develop in the NFL. The win against the Steelers not only showcased Horton’s abilities but also reignited the Seahawks’ offensive momentum, giving them hope for the remainder of the season.
