Seahawks LB Ernest Jones IV Calls Out Patriots Plays During Super Bowl Win

The young linebacker's cerebral play and instincts were on full display in Seattle's championship victory.

Feb. 12, 2026 at 5:55pm

In the Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots, linebacker Ernest Jones IV showed off his impressive football IQ by calling out the Patriots' plays during the game. Jones, who is in his second season with the Seahawks, has quickly become a defensive leader and a beloved player among the team's passionate fanbase, the '12's'. His ability to read the Patriots' offense and alert his teammates helped the Seahawks defense shut down the opposing team's attack.

Why it matters

Jones' performance highlights the importance of having a smart, cerebral player at the linebacker position who can diagnose plays and put his teammates in the best position to succeed. His leadership and playmaking ability were crucial in helping the Seahawks win their first Super Bowl in over a decade, solidifying the team's return to prominence in the NFL.

The details

During the game, there was one particular moment where Jones alerted his defensive linemen to stay down and watch for a run play, which the Seahawks then snuffed out successfully. Jones' film study and preparation allowed him to anticipate the Patriots' moves and relay that information to his teammates in real-time. The young linebacker has improved his meticulous side since entering the league, in part due to his time playing alongside former Seahawks star Bobby Wagner.

  • The Seahawks won their first Super Bowl in over a decade on February 12, 2026.

The players

Ernest Jones IV

A young linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks who has quickly become a defensive leader and beloved player among the team's passionate fanbase.

Bobby Wagner

A former star linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks who briefly played alongside Jones during the 2022 season with the Los Angeles Rams, helping to mentor the young player.

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What they’re saying

“Quite frankly, if you got anything to say about my quarterback, you got anything to say about my defense, you got anything to say about my O-Line, and you got anything to say about the city of Seattle, I got two words for you: F--- YOU!”

— Ernest Jones IV, Seahawks Linebacker (Instagram)

What’s next

The Seahawks will look to build on their Super Bowl victory and establish themselves as a perennial contender in the NFC, with Jones continuing to emerge as a defensive leader.

The takeaway

Ernest Jones IV's cerebral play and leadership were instrumental in the Seahawks' Super Bowl triumph, showcasing the importance of having a smart, instinctive linebacker who can elevate the entire defense. His passion and commitment to the team and city of Seattle have also made him a beloved figure among the team's loyal fanbase.