Thomas back on practice field

Seahawks safety Earl Thomas is “healed” from offseason surgery, and now it’s a matter of strengthening his shoulder in time for Seattle’s September 13 regular season opener against the St. Louis Rams, according to coach Pete Carroll.

The 26-year-old sustained the problem during his side’s NFC championship win over the Green Bay Packers, but played through the pain barrier during the Super Bowl. You know, I was debating if I still loved it at one point, but being out here today, it reassured me that I loved it. I just need to be out here. That will disappoint some fans around K.C. who wanted to see Waters throwing to Seahawks rookie Tyler Lockett again.

Linebacker Kevin-Pierre Louis is expected to play Friday after sitting out the preseason opener with a shoulder injury, while defensive Frank Clark is questionable after sitting out this week with an ankle issue. Those two connected numerous times the past two seasons for K-State.

Expect about a quarter of playing time for the first-teamers.

That includes the debut of Seattle’s new-look offensive line, with Drew Nowak at center, Garry Gilliam at right tackle and Justin Britt at left guard.

Seven of the 10 cornerbacks on Seattle’s roster did not dress for the game.

Carroll said he wants to see the starters play more “cleanly” against the Chiefs.

“No, we’ll just keep working at it”, Carroll said.

Thomas recorded 97 tackles, three forced fumbles and one interception last season. “We’re not in bad shape at all”. Why risk re-injuring an All-Pro on August 21?…

And also still out is strong safety Kam Chancellor, whose holdout is now 19 days old. The maximum fines the Seahawks could put on their team leader is up $880,000 – not that they will.