The opening game of the 2026 NFL season featured a standout performance of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' by Mike McCready, guitarist for Pearl Jam, during the Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots matchup at Lumen Field on September 11, 2026. The rendition, delivered on electric guitar in a style reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix, drew immediate and overwhelmingly positive reactions from fans and observers alike.
Seahawks Honor 9/11 Anniversary with Moment of Silence
The pregame ceremony included a moment of silence to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, as announced over the stadium’s public address system. Following the silence, the national anthem was performed with both a sign language interpretation and McCready’s guitar solo. The Seahawks’ approach to the tribute was described by NBC’s Mike Tirico as “authentically Seattle.”
McCready’s Performance Draws Rave Reviews
Social media users praised McCready’s rendition, with many comparing it favorably to Hendrix’s iconic 1969 Woodstock performance. Comments highlighted the emotional impact of the moment, with some users stating they were moved to tears. Pearl Jam’s connection to Seattle’s music scene and McCready’s reputation as a guitarist were frequently cited as reasons for the performance’s resonance. The NFL’s decision to feature a local artist for the anthem in Seattle further amplified the significance of the moment.
Background: The Seahawks’ Pre-Game Tribute
The NFL’s Week 1 games were designated to honor the victims of the September 11 attacks, with individual teams given flexibility in how they marked the occasion. The Seahawks’ choice to incorporate a guitar solo and sign language interpretation reflected a locally inspired approach, aligning with the city’s cultural identity. The moment of silence was conducted in accordance with the NFL’s scripted tribute, which explicitly referred to the attacks as “terrorist attacks.”
Reaction from Fans and Observers
The performance generated significant buzz online, with hashtags and posts celebrating McCready’s rendition. Fans described the moment as “perfect,” “epic,” and a “beautiful start to the NFL season.” The blend of rock music, local pride, and national symbolism resonated widely, reinforcing the Seahawks’ reputation for innovative and community-oriented pre-game ceremonies.
NFL’s Broader 9/11 Commemoration
The league’s decision to dedicate Week 1 to the 25th anniversary of the attacks included coordinated tributes across all games. The Seahawks’ approach stood out for its emphasis on local artistry and inclusive presentation, setting a distinctive tone for the season’s opening weekend.