Seahawks fans rarely agree on anything. Even a simple statement about Geno Smith’s performance can spark heated debates. It’s almost impossible to find universal agreement within the 12th Man, no matter how reasonable the opinion.
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However, there might be one thing most Seahawks fans can agree on: the 2002 uniform redesign was…unfortunate. For a decade, many considered them among the ugliest in the NFL. NFL.com even ranked them at the top of their “worst uniform changes” list, stating:
“The Seahawks are the only team making a change for 2012. That’s a wise move, because it’d be hard to look much worse than they have over the past decade. Who knew there were so many unattractive shades of blue? Rest in peace, “Seahawks Blue”; you may be gone from this world, but we’ll see you for eternity in NFL Films highlights of Emmitt Smith breaking the rushing record, Matt Hasselbeck erroneously guaranteeing an OT win in Lambeau, and your coach accusing the refs at Super Bowl XL of being Steelers fans.”
While the Super Bowl XL coach’s attire is debatable, the point about the uniforms stands.
Seattle Seahawks 2002-2011 Uniforms
These uniforms, worn from 2002 to 2011, felt instantly dated, a strange mix of modern and retro that missed the mark. They looked like they belonged on discount racks rather than the NFL gridiron – cheap, worn, and for many, too embarrassing to sport publicly.
Close-up of Seahawks 2002-2011 Navy Blue Jersey
Compared to the previous era’s uniforms, the difference in fan appeal is stark.
Seattle Seahawks Fans in Original and 2002 Uniforms
Which looks better? The trio in the front row sporting the 2002 designs, or the fan behind them in the classic Seahawks colors? Even the fans in the front seem to be hiding their embarrassment with face paint and wigs!
However, fast forward to more recent times, and the uniform landscape around Seahawks games has shifted.
Seattle Seahawks Fans Celebrating in Modern and Throwback Gear
While the post-2011 uniforms are widely loved, there’s also a significant presence of fans paying homage to the pre-2002 era. Noticeably absent? The navy blue of the much-maligned era, while neon green, a key element of those years, makes a surprising appearance.
The Seahawks Neon Green Uniforms: A Flash of Controversy
Despite the general dislike for the 2002-2011 uniforms, they were worn by Seahawks legends: Shaun Alexander, Matt Hasselbeck, Walter Jones, and even Marshawn Lynch during iconic moments. But nostalgia for players doesn’t translate to love for the Seahawks Green Uniforms of that time, especially the bolder, neon iterations.
A Twitter poll revealed that a staggering nine out of ten Seahawks fans are not keen on a throwback night dedicated to these uniforms.
Twitter Poll Results on Seahawks Throwback Uniforms
This overwhelming negativity sparks a rebellious thought: could bringing back these “ugly” uniforms actually be…cool? There’s a certain appeal in embracing the unexpected, something that goes against the grain. Think Billie Eilish, a style icon who thrives on defying conventional fashion.
Billie Eilish in Oversized Green Outfit
The very reason fans don’t want to see a throwback to the 2002-2011 era is what makes the idea intriguing. While aesthetically challenging for many, these Seahawks green uniforms were worn during a period of significant team success, including their first Super Bowl appearance. Winning, ultimately, is what matters most.
The Unexpected Coolness of “Ugly” Throwbacks
The unexpected nature of a 2005 throwback night is precisely why it could work. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, for example, brought back their infamous creamsicle uniforms, often cited as among the ugliest in NFL history, for a 2023 throwback game. The logic? Performance isn’t dictated by aesthetics.
The Seahawks also have history with bold uniform choices beyond the navy and college blue. Their 2009 neon green alternate uniforms, predating the NFL’s color rush craze, are frequently featured on “ugliest NFL jerseys” lists.
Seahawks Marshawn Lynch in Neon Green Jersey
In a world of predictable sports opinions, suggesting a Seahawks green uniforms throwback night is certainly more controversial than lukewarm takes on quarterback performance. Perhaps it’s time for the Seahawks to embrace their “ugly” past for a uniquely memorable game.
What do you think? Should the Seahawks bring back the neon green?
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Share this with fellow Seahawks fans and spark the debate! Is it time for a Seahawks green uniforms revival, or should they remain buried in the uniform archives?
