RENTON — There was never any explanation given for why the action took place. And considering Marshawn Lynch is at the center of the topic, that’s not much of a surprise.
The handshake. The universal symbol of the business deal. And for the past year — with few exceptions — it’s the way the Seattle Seahawks’ standout running back has celebrated getting into the end zone.
“He’s business. It’s all business for him,” Seattle cornerback Richard Sherman said. “I don’t think we’ve ever seen him celebrate — maybe once or twice he celebrates a touchdown.”
Some players have well-choreographed TD celebrations. Others take the opportunity for self-promotion when they score a touchdown.
Usually, that’s not Lynch’s style. And it serves as the ultimate counterbalance of Lynch as a running back: The simplicity of a handshake versus the fierce power and anger he runs with.
“I love the way he plays the game, he’s extremely competitive,” St. Louis linebacker James Laurinaitis said. “Personally I think he’s got a defensive player’s mindset. When he’s out there it looks like he’s always trying to find somebody to hit. I think it’s funny to me his touchdown celebration where he just shakes the offensive linemen’s hands, I always kind of laugh at that.”
For Lynch, the handshake celebration started last season during the NFC championship game. With Seattle trailing 10-3 at halftime, Lynch broke off a 40-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter to pull the Seahawks even. But instead of the typical helmet slaps that were part of Lynch celebrating with his teammates in the past, this time was different. After somersaulting into the end zone, Lynch stood up and was initially hugged by tight end Luke Willson. Before anymore celebrating could take place, Lynch held out his right hand and proceeded to professionally shake the hand of every other teammate that approached.
That was just the beginning.
“It’s really simply all it comes down to,” Seattle wide receiver Doug Baldwin said. “That’s who he is. He’s a business man on the football field. That’s what he does. That’s what he loves to do. No flare, no flash about it afterward. That’s just normal Marshawn. That’s just what he does.”
“That’s his style. It’s all about action,” Seattle guard J.R. Sweezy said. “That’s the way he thanks us, congratulates us and we continue to play.”
