Perhaps the expectations surrounding Tom Ashworth grew from circumstance and timing.The veteran offensive lineman, with a Super Bowl ring in tow, signed with the Seattle Seahawks just days after they lost All-Pro offensive guard Steve Hutchinson to the Minnesota Vikings. With his ability to play both offensive guard and tackle, it was assumed that Ashworth would be among those challenging to take Hutchinson’s spot along Seattle’s stout offensive line.
Fast-forward five months. Ashworth spends most of training camp practice as a backup, sometimes serving on the scout team. He doesn’t like talking to the media, but speaks politely about his new team, even though he’s gone from a starter protecting Tom Brady in New England, to a backup with Seattle.
“They’re the coaches. They’re going to put the guys in the position they feel best helps the team,” Ashworth said. “Wherever they see fit, for me, that’s what it’s going to be.”
