Shaun Alexander embarked on his professional football journey when he was selected by the Seattle Seahawks as the 19th overall pick in the 2000 NFL Draft. This selection, made on April 15, came after the Seahawks acquired the pick through a trade that sent wide receiver Joey Galloway to the Dallas Cowboys. Alexander's initial years in the league, spanning from 2000 to 2004, marked a significant period of growth and established him as a prominent running
back, culminating in multiple Pro Bowl selections and setting the stage for his future successes.
The Rookie Season and Stepping Up (2000-2001)
In his rookie year, 2000, Alexander saw limited playing time, operating behind the team's starter, Ricky Watters. During this season, he carried the ball 64 times, accumulating 313 rushing yards and scoring two touchdowns. His receiving contributions included 5 receptions for 41 yards. This initial period provided him with an introduction to the professional game, albeit in a supporting role. However, the landscape changed significantly in 2001. With Watters' departure, Alexander stepped into the starting role, making 12 starts in 16 games played. He dramatically increased his production, rushing 309 times for 1,318 yards, averaging 4.3 yards per carry, and scoring 14 rushing touchdowns. He also added 44 receptions for 343 yards and two receiving touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility and immediate impact as a primary offensive weapon for the Seahawks.
Consistent Performance and Rising Stardom (2002-2003)
Alexander continued to build on his success in the 2002 season, starting all 16 games. He recorded 295 rushing attempts for 1,175 yards, maintaining a 4.0 yards per carry average, and found the end zone 16 times on the ground. His receiving game remained strong with 59 receptions for 460 yards and two touchdowns. This consistent performance solidified his position as one of the league's top running backs. The 2003 season further cemented his status, as he once again played and started all 16 games. He rushed 326 times for 1,435 yards, averaging 4.4 yards per carry, and scored 14 rushing touchdowns. His receiving numbers included 42 receptions for 295 yards and two touchdowns. This impressive season earned him his first Pro Bowl selection, a testament to his growing influence and skill.
Peak Performance and All-Pro Recognition (2004)
The 2004 season represented a significant high point in Alexander's early career. He started all 16 games, carrying the ball a career-high 353 times for 1,696 yards, averaging 4.8 yards per carry. He matched his previous high with 16 rushing touchdowns. In the passing game, he contributed 23 receptions for 170 yards and four receiving touchdowns. This outstanding year not only earned him another Pro Bowl selection but also his first All-Pro recognition, highlighting his elite performance among his peers. His consistent ability to gain significant yardage and score touchdowns made him a cornerstone of the Seahawks' offense during these formative years, setting the stage for his MVP season that would follow.
