Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando
Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren capped the team's two-week voluntary minicamp with a humorous proclamation. The message: He's still alive. Holmgren's absence from camp early this week made headlines because, well, everything seems to make headlines.
As the team said earlier in the week, and as Holmgren reiterated today, the coach underwent a minor surgical procedure Monday. He took a couple days off. He did not provide details about the procedure, but he appeared normal today.
Holmgren has become more health-conscious at his wife's urging. He has lost weight on a Jenny Craig diet. But he's still a big guy and an imposing figure whose presence makes a difference at practice. He has full command of the team.
Other notes from practice today:
What does it mean? When we look up in September, we should see the following starters, left to right: Jones, Mike Wahle, Spencer, Rob Sims and Locklear. As for utility backup Floyd Womack, he hasn't practiced since aggravating an injury at the beginning of minicamp.
- Today Rocky Bernard moved much better than he did earlier this camp, Holmgren said. Bernard is returning from foot surgery.
- Holmgren heads into training camp with more questions at receiver and running back than at any other position. He isn't quite sure what they have there, particularly with Deion Branch recovering from knee surgery and Bobby Engram staying away while asking for a new contract.
- Holmgren expressed optimism that Marcus Tubbs could be ready for the start of training camp. Tubbs, a 2004 first-round pick with the athletic ability to push the pocket when healthy, has had chronic knee issues. The Seahawks are no longer counting on him, but if he comes back and plays well, it's a huge bonus for the defense.
- Holmgren's post-camp speech to the team urged players to ask themselves what they're willing to do, work-wise, in taking the next step. At the same time, he encouraged them to get some needed down time.
- Finally, Holmgren reminded the defense that its performance suffered on the road last season. In Holmgren's view, Seattle could have had a top-five defense last season simply by playing better away from Qwest Field.
