Jake Bobo: From Underdog to Seahawks Roster Surprise in 2023
Undrafted Rookie Jake Bobo Earns a Spot on the Seattle Seahawks 53-Man Roster with Exceptional Skills
Jake Bobo, once considered a longshot for the Seahawks’ roster during the training camp, has defied expectations with his remarkable skills. Despite not fitting the NFL’s conventional physical standards, this 6-foot-4 athlete who ran a 4.99 40-yard dash at his Pro Day has become a standout player for the Seattle Seahawks.
In a surprising turn of events, Bobo, an undrafted rookie, managed to secure a spot on the Seattle Seahawks’ final 53-man roster. While competition for playing time is fierce with players like Tyler Lockett, DK Metcalf, and first-round pick Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Bobo’s performance has set him apart from the rest.
Bobo’s journey from UCLA’s best receiver a year ago to a member of the Seahawks’ roster is nothing short of inspiring. Throughout practices and preseason games, he has consistently impressed with his toughness, exceptional hand-eye coordination, and, most notably, his exceptional route-running skills.
“Then I got up here and I’ve seen the way he ran routes and the way he practices, he practices harder than me. Like he’s more detailed than I ever will be, and I use that as motivation to practice harder and make sure I’m honing into more details because he’s doing all of the little things right.”
– DK Metcalf on Jake Bobo (per Michael-Shawn Dugar)
Even DK Metcalf, one of the NFL’s most accomplished wide receivers, couldn’t help but acknowledge Bobo’s talent, saying, “This is quite the endorsement, considering it’s coming from one of the most prolific wide receivers in the National Football League.” Metcalf’s words not only highlight Bobo’s skill but also indirectly endorse Chip Kelly’s UCLA Football program, showcasing its ability to develop high-level players.
“You have to know where [Bobo] is, that’s just what I’m going to say off the rip. Watching him I’m very curious how he gets open every time. So, I asked him about his skip release, or I asked him about what do you see here or what do you see there. So I mean, he’s just a unique player in my opinion, who’s going to make a lot of noise.”
– Metcalf on Bobo
As the 2023 NFL regular season kicks off, Jake Bobo, alongside former UCLA teammate Zach Charbonnet, prepares to represent Seattle in their matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. Bobo’s journey from being an underdog to a valued member of the Seahawks is a testament to hard work, determination, and the power of believing in oneself. Stay tuned to witness Bobo’s incredible journey unfold on the NFL stage.