RENTON, Wash. – The Seattle Seahawks enter this week with a much-improved injury report, a welcome change after missing a significant portion of their defensive line in Monday’s loss to the Detroit Lions.
Rookie defensive tackle Byron Murphy II is the only player officially ruled out for Sunday’s game against the New York Giants due to a hamstring injury. However, several key players, including defensive end Leonard Williams and linebackers Jerome Baker and Uchenna Nwosu, are set to return.
Williams, who missed last week’s game with a rib injury, Baker, out for two games with a hamstring issue, and Nwosu, sidelined since preseason due to a knee sprain, will help bolster Seattle’s defense. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald expressed optimism about their recovery, saying, “We got a couple of guys questionable… but things are positive.”
Linebacker Boye Mafe (knee) and safety Julian Love (thigh) are listed as questionable, though Love expects to play against his former team, the Giants. “I’m good, yeah. Just ready to go,” Love said, after sustaining a thigh contusion in the Detroit game.
Nwosu, speaking to ESPN’s Brady Henderson, confirmed he’s ready to return after a long recovery. “It’s been a long road, but I feel good. I feel like I’m ready to go.”
If Nwosu and Williams play Sunday, it will mark the first time the former USC teammates take the field together for Seattle. Williams, who was traded from the Giants last year, is eager to face his former team but is staying focused. “I’m obviously excited to play against those guys, but it’s just another game,” Williams said.
Nose tackle Cameron Young, who returned to practice this week after being on the physically unable to perform list with a knee injury, will not be activated yet. Linebacker Tyrice Knight, who missed practice for personal reasons, is expected back for Sunday’s game, resuming his backup role with Baker returning.
The Seahawks are hoping the returning players will help turn the tide after a tough loss, as they prepare to take on a Giants team desperate for a win.
