RENTON — The Seahawks initial injury report for the season, released on Wednesday, revealed a mix of concerns and optimism. Two players, outside linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (knee) and tight end Pharaoh Brown (foot), were listed as unable to practice.
Four additional players were noted as limited in practice: tight end Noah Fant (toe), receiver Tyler Lockett (thigh), safety Rayshawn Jenkins (calf), and linebacker Dre’Mont Jones (hamstring). The fact that these players participated in practice suggests they have a strong chance of being available for the season opener against Denver at Lumen Field on Sunday at 1:05 p.m.
Notably absent from the injury report were center Connor Williams and linebacker Jerome Baker, indicating their readiness to play. Both players missed the preseason—Baker due to a hamstring injury and Williams recovering from an ACL injury sustained last December. Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald noted that Williams has been progressing well and has practiced for the last two weeks. If Williams is cleared to play, he is expected to start at center, a position Olu Oluwatimi filled during the preseason.
Nwosu sustained a knee sprain during the preseason finale against Cleveland on August 24, while Brown was injured during a joint practice with the Tennessee Titans on August 17. The Seahawks did not place either player on injured reserve, suggesting they do not anticipate a lengthy absence. Macdonald mentioned that while there is no set timetable for Nwosu’s return, the decision not to place him on IR indicates the team hopes for a quicker recovery, potentially as soon as two weeks.
The Seahawks injury report also clarified previous uncertainties regarding Lockett, Fant, and Jenkins. Lockett, who spoke to the media on Monday, expressed confidence about playing against the Broncos, noting that his preseason absence was intentional to ensure readiness for his 10th NFL season.
Cornerback Artie Burns, who sustained a toe injury against Cleveland, was not listed on the injury report as he is on the practice squad. However, Burns was seen participating in warmups and is expected to be promoted to the 53-man roster for Sunday’s game.
