A seal system may comprise a seal cavity defined, at least partially, by a first axial surface and a second axial surface. The second axial surface may be recessed with respect to the first axial surface. A brush seal may be disposed in the seal cavity. The brush seal may comprise a first bristle pack and a backing plate coupled to the first bristle pack. A first group of bristles of the first bristle pack may be radially inward of the first axial surface.