Defensive coordinator Rhodes returns to practice in limited capacity

KIRKLAND, Wash. – Ray Rhodes made a small step toward his usual routine Wednesday, and he expects to make another long journey in that direction this weekend.

The Seattle Seahawks’ defensive coordinator, who had not attended a practice in nearly four weeks after suffering a mild stroke on Sept. 4, was back on the field. Coach Mike Holmgren said Rhodes will travel with the team to Washington later this week for Sunday’s game against the Redskins.

“It’s good to see him out there, just to know he’s healthy and doing all right,” Seahawks linebacker Kevin Bentley said after Rhodes helped the team through an afternoon practice.

Rhodes said last week that it would take a while for him to feel like himself again.

“Ray’s always out there coaching me up; right now, he can’t get his blood pressure too high,” safety Michael Boulware said. “Hopefully he’s not watching me too much because he might have to go back inside.”

You can go home again

While Seattle sports figures such as Ken Griffey Jr. and Lou Piniella have gone home to unexpected adversity, former Seahawks cornerback Shaun Springs has fared just fine.

The native of Silver Spring, Md., has enjoyed his return to the Washington area.

“It worked out. It’s been a good thing so far,” said Springs, who played seven seasons with Seattle before signing with the Redskins as a free agent in March 2004. “Change is good for me.”

Springs was one of the leaders of the NFL’s third-ranked defense last season, becoming the third player in league history to lead his team in both sacks (six) and interceptions (five).

Quick slants

Seattle’s injury report includes wide receiver Peter Warrick (questionable, groin) and cornerback Kelly Herndon (probably, neck stinger). Neither one practiced. … Seattle continued to rest Matt Hasselbeck’s arm, as he split practice time with Seneca Wallace.