Hasselbeck hopes work pays off

RENTON, Wash. – Matt Hasselbeck’s health is so important to the Seattle Seahawks he had a personal trainer come with his family on their annual vacation to Central Washington.

The 33-year-old three-time Pro Bowl passer looks leaner after losing 8 pounds to get closer to 230.

“I was open minded to trying new, outside-the-box things,” he said. “I did different things and I made it a priority.”

Why all the work? The health of Hasselbeck, nine-time Pro Bowl left tackle Walter Jones, and two-time Pro Bowl defensive end Patrick Kerney are the keys to Seattle’s hopes of a rebound season.

Jones, 35, is coming off microfracture surgery in his knee. Kerney, 32, had a second shoulder operation in as many winters. And Hasselbeck, who turns 34 next month, had a bulging disk in his back that cost him nine games in the worst season of his career.

When he did play last season, Hasselbeck was under siege behind an injured and ineffective offensive line. He was throwing futilely to guys signed off the street because of seven injuries at wide receiver. Seattle finished 4-12, its worst season since 1992.

That’s why Hasselbeck admits this offseason was probably his most important since he became Seattle’s starter for good in 2002 under Mike Holmgren. Now he’s got new head coach Jim Mora, new offensive coordinator Greg Knapp and their run-first offense.

“Yeah, absolutely,” Hasselbeck said. “It’s obviously a new system. I didn’t play much last year. I had a tough injury. It was a very frustrating season.”

Now, he has no limitations – or concerns. “I am feeling good,” he said.

Receiver Nate Burleson was more effusive.

“He looks great,” Burleson said. “The biggest indicator for me is how well he’s doing with his accuracy throwing the ball. He’s hitting every receiver in stride. That’s impressive, especially this early in camp.”