Already they are being compared with the ‘Legion of Boom’ defence, which helped Seattle to two straight Super Bowls in 2014 and 2015, winning the first against Denver.

Durde’s mentor Quinn was the Seahawks’ defensive coordinator back then, but the Briton says this team is building its own identity.

“We’ve been making sure we’re putting the right things in place at the right stages so we can start the year the way we want to start it,” he said.

“As we’re building this, I’m looking at where we’re going and how we’re doing it fundamentally day by day, week by week, phase by phase.

“The one thing I’m most excited about is the opportunity to be part of something from the start – to build a way of doing things, a way of life, a standard and identity within the defence that is bigger than just one of us.

“It’s a smart, physical, tough team, and we’ve got a lot of talented players, so I’m excited about what they can be.”

Seattle will face the first big test of their play-off credentials on Monday against the Detroit Lions, who reached last season’s NFC Championship game.

Durde, meanwhile, will keep flying the flag for the UK to ensure more Britons get the chance to follow in his footsteps and fulfil their NFL dream.

“I feel like I still have to do everything I can to be as good as I possibly can be, not just because it’s my job but for the opportunity for everyone else,” he added.

“If I represent myself well, hopefully it creates other opportunities for people [from the UK] to get seen.”