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Seahawks open game vs. 49ers with electric 95-yard kickoff return touchdown

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated Jan 17, 2026 9:05 PM ET

The Seattle Seahawks could not have asked for a better start to their Divisional Round matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.

Seahawks wide receiver Rashid Shaheed set off some fireworks to open Saturday’s game at Lumen Field in Seattle, Wash. Shaheed caught the 49ers’ kickoff at Seattle’s 5-yard line and burst through the middle of the San Francisco defense.

Shaheed, running at full speed, eluded every oncoming defender en route to a game-opening touchdown off a kick return.

RASHID SHAHEED 95-YARD KICKOFF RETURN TO START THE GAME.

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The Seahawks came into Saturday’s game with serious questions about quarterback Sam Darnold’s injured oblique. The team didn’t even need Darnold to throw a single pass before taking a quick 7-0 lead. The home fans surely didn’t mind the wait.

Shaheed, an All-Pro return specialist, entered the season without a single kickoff return touchdown for his career. Saturday’s kickoff return TD against the 49ers was his second in just over the last six weeks.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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