Announcing the initial 53-man roster for any NFL team seems like a pointless exercise each year. Because we know that by mid-September, at least a few names on that 53 long list will already be different.

Still, when that list comes out, it is always fun to debate who was included, excluded and all the surprises.

Speaking of surprises, Jordan Hill's omission from the Seattle Seahawks' season opening team was somewhat surprising. A mainstay along the defensive line for years, he was a favorite of multiple defensive coordinators and Pete Carroll. He showed potential and his talent, but staying on the field proved to be a skill he could not master. Heading into his fourth year with the team since the Seahawks drafted him in the third-round in 2013 out of Penn State.

Many familiar faces along the defensive line, with stars such as Cliff Avril and Michael Bennett, but also a new old face. Tony McDaniel was recently brought back after he failed to catch on with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

What may be a surprise as many said leading up to the draft that he was too raw and not ready to be an impact offensive lineman in the NFL, Germain Ifedi is tabbed as a starter. After showing an unrivaled tenacity throughout camp, Ifedi had a performance that backed it up enough for the coaching staff to entrust him with the starting right guard spot.

While the Seahawks have become known for producing great defensive backs, and even have a former defensive back as their defensive coordinator in Kris Richard, it's somewhat surprising how many defensive backs they kept on their final roster. While most teams around the league carry maybe nine or 10, Seattle chose to hold onto 12.

For the first time in a long time the Seahawks won't have a fullback on their roster heading into the season. For years, Pete Carroll's teams were one of the last and few teams to field a fullback. Word is they may bring back Will Tukuafu or Tani Tupou after Week 1, when veteran contracts are not guaranteed. Tupou helped his cause with his ability to play defensive tackle as well, which should at least get him on the practice squad.

Under center Trevone Boykin is solidified as Russell Wilson's back up, as expected former Skyline High star Jake Heaps was cut. Boykin didn't really do anything to alleviate any doubts, but hopefully he won't have to prove himself in a real game.

Photo:Flickr/Mike Morris