SAN JOSE, Calif. — Julian Love wasn’t certain he’d wrap up his NFL career with the Giants, where it all began. For professional athletes, pinpointing the end of their journey can be challenging.
Yet, following the 2022 season, Love had some thoughts about what the future held for him.
“I thought I’d be there at least a few more years,” he remarked during a media session for the 2026 Super Bowl. His progression, both geographically and in his career, is quite remarkable considering his time with the Giants.
Now a vital component of the “dark side” defense for the Seahawks, Love serves as a starting safety, consistently showcasing strong leadership and intelligence on the field.
This Sunday, he’ll have a variety of responsibilities, and he’s set on making things difficult for the Patriots’ second-year quarterback, Drake Maye.
Relocating from the East Coast to the Pacific Northwest hasn’t been the transition he initially envisioned.
Surprisingly, it turned out to be an excellent match for him and the team, yielding positive outcomes.
“Everyone carries a chip on their shoulder. I have a big one. I’m typically calm and collected. Some people had doubts about my style of play. For ten years, I’ve been performing well, so if you watch me play, you can see my production. I’m the type of player that’s recognized by those in the know, and I’m okay with that,” he said.
Numerous text messages expressing gratitude and admiration for Love have come in from former Giants players and others from the organization.
That’s quite a list.
Many players come and go, but Love has left a lasting impression.
Drafted in the fourth round from Notre Dame in 2019, he struggled to find a consistent role in his initial three seasons.
He played both safety and nickel cornerback.
In 2022, defensive coordinator Wink Martindale recognized his capabilities, making him a regular starter for the first time.
The Giants reached the playoffs, and it seemed that Love and Xavier McKinney would be their safety duo for years to come.
During the 2022 bye week, the Giants extended a three-year, $22.5 million offer to Love, with $10 million guaranteed.
However, Love declined, considering that he might get a higher annual salary, up to $10 million. Unfortunately for him, the safety market took a hit that off-season.
By the end of it, his best option turned out to be a two-year contract with the Seahawks worth $12 million, including $6 million guaranteed—much lower than what the Giants had offered.
When Love’s agent relayed Seattle’s offer to the Giants, they were still under the impression that he was asking for $10 million annually, causing them to move on.
“There were talks about an extension, but the numbers just didn’t match up,” Love mentioned. “It was a bit of a gamble on my part. I truly care about the people in that organization, especially Mr. [John] Mara. Much love and gratitude. But I love where I am now.”
Why not? Love and his wife, Julia, welcomed their son Noah in Seattle and are expecting their second child soon.
Originally from the suburbs of Chicago, Love still sees himself as an East Coast person.
“My wife and I love New York and New Jersey—there’s something about the people and the food, that gritty vibe we appreciate, reminiscent of Chicago,” he reflected. “Seattle was just a perfect fit for us. It’s beautiful and laid-back, and the fans are amazing.”
At 27, Love faced a challenging 2025 season, starting only eight games due to a hamstring injury but managed to return for the last four regular-season games and two playoff matches.
He maintains a close relationship with defensive lineman Leonard Williams, reflecting on their shared experiences with the Giants along with the contrast of his current success with the Seahawks.
Over the first three seasons, the Giants struggled with records of 4-12, 6-10, and 4-13.
In 2022, however, Love saw some success as the Giants finished at 9-7-1 and made the playoffs.
Meanwhile, Love’s journey with the Seahawks unfolded, including a 9-8 record in 2023, 10-7 in 2024 under rookie head coach Mike McDonald, and a stellar 14-3 in 2025, advancing them deep into the playoffs and ultimately to the Super Bowl.
While the Giants floundered with a 7-27 record over two seasons, they decided to let go of Brian Daboll and hired John Harbaugh.
“For me, it’s undoubtedly a tale of two cities,” Love remarked. “Leo and I truly understand what it’s like. Losing can weigh heavily on your mind, and it impacts your personal life beyond the game. It’s tough, especially for those who are competitive. Yes, I appreciate my journey.”
