Josh Jones Remains One Of Seattle's Most Important Backups

Josh Jones has proven to be Seattle's most important backup on the offensive line, stepping in for Charles Cross during the final stretch of the season. With Cross sidelined by a hamstring injury for three weeks, Jones started and the Seahawks went 3-0 in the subsequent games, despite giving up two sacks and nine pressures. He did so while nursing his own injuries, keeping his status uncertain for Week 18 against San Francisco. Signed as a backup for $4 million, Jones has been a stable presence on the left side, a role Seattle valued by keeping him rather than cycling through cheaper options.

Re-signing him this offseason at the same $4 million level reinforced that choice, even as minicamp questions linger about his conditioning and health. Jones has pushed back on a narrative that his fitness is an issue, using social media to defend his preparation. The contract is largely guaranteed, and Seattle appears comfortable with Jones as a trusted, if sometimes scrutinized, reserve. If Cross were to miss more time, Jones’ experience as a backup tackle in multiple schemes would matter, and his availability has been a key factor in the Seahawks' planning for 2026.