The 12s are more than just fans — they are a defining part of the Seattle Seahawks identity. Known league-wide for their volume, loyalty, and impact on games, the 12s represent one of the strongest home-field advantages in the NFL.
From deafening noise levels to retired jerseys, here’s everything you need to know about who the 12s are, where the name comes from, and why they matter so much to the Seahawks.
What Does “12s” Mean in Football?
In American football, each team has 11 players on the field. The Seahawks’ fanbase is known as the 12s because they are considered the 12th player, influencing games through relentless noise and energy.
Seattle fans are famous for:
- Creating false starts and delays for opposing offenses
- Sustaining extreme noise levels throughout entire games
- Turning home games into hostile environments for visiting teams
The idea is simple: when the Seahawks play at home, they’re never alone.
Why Seahawks Fans Are Called the 12s (Not “12th Man”)
Originally, Seattle referred to its fans as the “12th Man.” However, that phrase is traditionally associated with Texas A&M University, which owns the trademark.
After a licensing agreement ended, the Seahawks officially adopted the term “12s.” The meaning stayed the same — honoring the fans as a crucial part of the team — but the branding became uniquely Seattle.
Today, 12s is the official name used by the team, media, and fans worldwide.
The Retired No. 12 Jersey
One of the most iconic moments in Seahawks history came in 1984, when the franchise retired the No. 12 jersey — not for a player, but for the fans.
Key details:
- No Seahawks player will ever wear No. 12
- The jersey symbolizes fan impact and loyalty
- It is displayed proudly during games and ceremonies
Few teams in professional sports have honored their fanbase in this way, further cementing the 12s as part of Seahawks lore.
Why Lumen Field Is One of the Loudest Stadiums in the NFL
Seattle’s home stadium, Lumen Field, is consistently ranked among the loudest venues in professional sports.
The 12s have:
- Set Guinness World Records for crowd noise
- Forced opponents into communication breakdowns
- Made Seattle one of the toughest road games in the league
The stadium’s design amplifies crowd noise, but it’s the fans who bring it to life every Sunday.
The 12s and Seahawks Culture
The 12s aren’t just loud — they’re deeply woven into Seahawks culture.
You’ll see the influence everywhere:
- “Raise the 12” flags before kickoff
- Team merchandise built around the number 12
- Community events and charity initiatives led by fans
Players and coaches routinely credit the 12s for momentum swings and emotional lifts during games.
Why the 12s Matter in Today’s NFL
In an era of silent counts and advanced communication systems, crowd noise still matters — and Seattle fans remain elite at using it.
For the Seahawks:
- Home-field advantage is real
- Opponents must adjust game plans
- Fans actively shape outcomes
Few franchises can point to a fanbase that directly affects performance the way the 12s do.
Final Thoughts: More Than Fans, a Competitive Edge
The 12s are not a nickname — they’re a philosophy. They represent unity between team and city, noise as a weapon, and loyalty as tradition.
Whether you’re watching a prime-time matchup or a rainy Sunday afternoon in Seattle, one thing is guaranteed:
If the Seahawks are at home, the 12s are in the game.