Seattle Seahawks all-time Mount Rushmore
By Matt Graves
3. Walter Jones, OT (2000-2009)
The Seahawks selected Walter Jones with the sixth overall selection in the 1997 NFL Draft. For the next 12 seasons, the Flordia State alum would solidify himself as the anchor of the offensive line all from his left tackle position.
Jones not only provided blindside protection for quarterbacks, but he helped Ricky Waters achieve three-consecutive 1,000 rushing yard seasons with the Seahawks. For his efforts, Jones became the first offensive lineman in Seahawks history to be elected to the Pro Bowl.
A team leader, Jones’s level of play would continue to grow into the 2000s. He would play a significant role in Shaun Alexander’s MVP season in 2005. Jones helped his running back run for a franchise-high 1,880 yards and 27 touchdowns. Jones’ 10 playoff starts included appearances in the 2005 NFC Championship Game and a Super Bowl 40 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Jones will forever be known as one of the best offensive linemen ever to play the game. In 5,703 passing plays, the Hall of Famer was penalized for holding nine times and allowed only 23 sacks in his career. Jones would also earn first-team All-Pro honors four times and nine Pro Bowl nods.