The Seattle Seahawks secured a hard-fought 16-6 victory over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday afternoon, but the win came at a cost. The already banged-up Seahawks’ offensive line took another blow when starting right guard Anthony Bradford was forced to leave the game with an ankle injury during Seattle’s opening series.
Injury Report: Anthony Bradford’s Setback
Bradford, who has started 20 games over the past two seasons, sustained the injury early in the first quarter. After initially staying down on the turf for a moment, Bradford was helped off the field and quickly carted to the locker room. Head coach Mike Macdonald provided a positive update after the game, revealing that the injury wasn’t a fracture, though it’s expected to sideline the second-year pro for at least one week. Bradford was seen on the sidelines during the second half wearing a walking boot and using crutches, a tough sight for a player who had just cemented his role as a starter after a competitive training camp battle with rookie Christian Haynes.
With Bradford out, it was up to Haynes, the rookie third-round pick, to step in at right guard for the remainder of the game. Haynes had rotated in throughout the season, but this was his first real extended playing time at a critical position. The shift marked another challenge for Seattle’s offensive line, which has been dealing with injuries and shifting personnel all year long.
The Offensive Line Struggles Continue
Bradford’s injury is just the latest chapter in the saga of Seattle’s offensive line woes. The team has already dealt with a series of issues at the right tackle position, where the rotation has been as unpredictable as it is injury-riddled. With starters George Fant and Stone Forsythe both placed on injured reserve earlier in the season, Seattle had been left to rely on fourth-string rookie Michael Jerrell at right tackle before Abraham Lucas returned from offseason knee surgery in Week 9. Lucas’ return was a much-needed boost, but now the Seahawks find themselves adjusting yet again due to Bradford’s absence.
The uncertainty at both the right guard and right tackle positions has left fans and coaches alike wondering if the offensive line can ever find consistency. Fortunately, while Bradford’s injury is a blow, it’s not expected to be long-term. His absence will likely open the door for Haynes to solidify his place on the field in a critical role, though the ongoing disruption to Seattle’s offensive line chemistry remains a concern moving forward.
Defensive Highlights: Leonard Williams and Coby Bryant Shine
While the offense had its issues with injuries, the Seahawks’ defense was once again a standout force in their win over Arizona. Leonard Williams, acquired in a mid-season trade, put on an absolute clinic with a dominant performance in the trenches. Williams, a seasoned defensive lineman, continues to show why Seattle made a move for him, bringing both a steady pass rush and crucial run-stopping ability.
Meanwhile, cornerback Coby Bryant drew praise for his playmaking ability, including a nod to “Beast Mode” with a physical and electrifying hit that left a lasting impression. Bryant’s growth and impact on defense have been key to the Seahawks’ success this season, and his play on Sunday was a reminder of the young talent making waves in Seattle.
No Major Setbacks in the Secondary
Outside of Bradford’s injury, the Seahawks emerged from their matchup with Arizona relatively unscathed. Cornerback Riq Woolen briefly exited the game after taking a hit during a 30-yard reception by Arizona’s Michael Wilson, but the defensive standout returned to action shortly thereafter, further underscoring the depth and resilience of Seattle’s defense.
Looking Ahead
The Seahawks’ win over the Cardinals keeps them in the playoff hunt in the NFC, but the continued injuries to key offensive linemen highlight the ongoing challenge of keeping Russell Wilson’s protection intact as the season progresses. With Bradford’s status uncertain for Week 12, the spotlight will fall on Haynes to step up once again as Seattle looks to build on their momentum and weather the storm of injuries.
As the Seahawks continue to navigate the injury-riddled waters of the 2024 season, it’s clear they’ll need to lean heavily on both their young talent and their veteran leaders to keep pushing for a playoff berth. With games ahead against tough competition, the hope is that their offensive line will find some stability before the stretch run. For now, the Seahawks can celebrate another win – and brace for the next challenge that awaits.
