Julian Peterson played multiple roles in San Francisco, which earned him a big contract. In Seattle, he’s filling less of a role — and posting bigger numbers.
Peterson, a Crossland alum, has become the player that most fears opposing offenses. His statistics show the reason why: he has 19 _ sacks since joining Seattle before the 2006 season, including 9 1/2 this season. He had 21 1/2 in six years with the Niners. He’s also a standout in pass coverage and has intercepted two passes, tying a career best.
It’s why he earned his fourth Pro Bowl bid.
“He’s had a good year,” Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren said. “A lot was expected of him. He’s such a fabulous athlete and a unique physical specimen that he can do some things and still rush the passer.”
Peterson, and the entire Seahawks’ pass rush, was helped by the addition of end Patrick Kerney, who finished with a team-best 14 1/2 sacks. But it’s the 6-foot-3, 240-pound Peterson, in his eighth season (after spending the first six with San Francisco), who commands the most attention.
“He’s been to the Pro Bowl, and I think he’s the best linebacker in the league,” linebacker Lofa Tatupu told Seattle reporters earlier this season. “Who doesn’t?”
