The Seahawks’ winning record and success in the division were unexpected by many. Terry Hollimon names some key performers contributing to the team’s victories so far this year. Best Defensive Player: Tariq Woolen The cornerback has five interceptions, including one for a pick six and two recovered fumbles. He’s a rookie and a top player on the defense. “I know I was hard on him at the beginning of the year,” Hollimon said. “He had a rough start as rookie, but he has really shown up and shown out for this defensive secondary.” Best Offensive Lineman: Abe Lucas Lucas played for Washington State before joining the Seahawks this year as a rookie right tackle. He’s big, strong, and physical. “He’s not only one of the best rookie offensive linemen in the league, but he’s also one of the best linemen, period.” Top Special Teams Player: Jason Myers The kicker has gone 19 for 20 on field goals this season and is the leading Seahawks scorer with 83 points. “Mr. Myers is doing his thing. He’s putting up lots of points for these Seahawks.” Most Improved: Ryan Neal Neal is having a strong year after stepping in for Jamaal Adams who is out for the season with an injury. “Ryan Neal stepped in, filled in, and has been playing lights out. He has been one of the stalwarts in the secondary.” Biggest Surprise: Bruce Irvin The outside linebacker retired and came back and has been leading the team both with motivation and by example, making big plays. “He’s come in and been the leader of this defense. They’ve really turned the corner since he’s been out there.” Rookie of the Year: Kenneth Walker III Running back Walker III has been making a significant impact since Rashaad Penny got injured. He has 587 yards rushing so far this season. “He’s stepped up and done his thing.” Most Valuable Player: Geno Smith and Pete Carroll/John Schneider (Tie) Geno Smith is having a truly impressive season with 2,474 yards passing so far and a 72.8 completion percentage. “He’s stepped in and has led the team in incredible fashion.” Pete Carroll and John Schneider have also led this team to more success than most anticipated this season. Many thought this year would be a rebuild, but the Seahawks have a path to the playoffs. “They’ve got a couple of the best rookies in the whole entire National Football League. They’ve got this team at the top of the division, and no one expected this.” The Seahawks will host the Las Vegas Raiders this Sunday. The defense will have to watch out for star receiver Davante Adams, and though Derek Carr can be a wild card, he has big play potential. Hawk Zone is sponsored by Muckleshoot Casino. Don't miss the prolific singer/songwriter, Paul Anka, on Saturday, Feb. 25 delivering his greatest hits with his all-star band. Get more information and tickets on the Muckleshoot Casino website. Sponsored by Muckleshoot Casino. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- KING 5's New Day Northwest is Western Washington's only local daytime talk show. Watch it weekdays at 11 a.m. PST on KING 5 TV and streaming live on http://www.king5.com. #newdaynw 🢒 Follow New Day Northwest! 🢐 FACEBOOK 🢒 https://www.facebook.com/newdaynw TWITTER 🢒 https://twitter.com/newdaynw INSTAGRAM 🢒 https://www.instagram.com/newdaynw