The Seattle Seahawks orchestrated a thrilling second-half comeback to claim a 26-21 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday. Their seventh win of the season, coupled with an Arizona Cardinals loss, propelled Seattle to the top of the NFC West. While the win was crucial for their playoff hopes, it was marred by an injury concern for star wide receiver DK Metcalf, who left the game with a knee issue.
Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald offered some reassurance following the game, downplaying the severity of Metcalf’s injury.
“DK Metcalf tweaked his knee, but tests done on the sideline indicated he was OK,” reported John Boyle of Seahawks.com.
Metcalf’s health has been a recurring storyline for Seattle this season. The receiver already missed time earlier in the year with a shoulder injury, and now the team faces uncertainty regarding his knee. While he was able to return to Sunday’s game, fans remain concerned, especially with a critical NFC West matchup against the Cardinals looming in Week 14.
Seattle’s midseason struggles turned what could have been a comfortable division lead into a tight race. The Cardinals, now 6-6 after a heartbreaking loss to the Minnesota Vikings, remain in contention. Arizona fell on Sunday after allowing a late fourth-quarter touchdown, setting up a high-stakes rematch with Seattle next week. The Seahawks narrowly defeated the Cardinals 16-6 in their Week 12 meeting in Seattle, but the upcoming game in Arizona could play a pivotal role in determining the division champion.
In Metcalf’s absence, rookie wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba continued to shine. The first-round pick led the team with 74 receiving yards on Sunday, demonstrating his ability to fill the void when needed. Smith-Njigba’s emergence as a reliable target adds depth to Seattle’s offense and provides some relief as Metcalf works his way back to full strength.
The Seahawks’ resurgence this season has been powered by quarterback Geno Smith and a revitalized defense under new head coach Mike Macdonald. After making the playoffs in 2022, Seattle stumbled last season, missing the postseason amid a coaching change. However, Macdonald has reignited the team, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, which has become a key strength during their playoff push.
Smith, meanwhile, has found a rhythm, providing consistency and leadership on offense. With weapons like Smith-Njigba and running back Kenneth Walker III stepping up, the Seahawks have the firepower to remain competitive even as they manage injuries.
Looking ahead, the Seahawks’ focus will be on ensuring Metcalf’s availability for their critical matchup against Arizona. A healthy Metcalf, paired with Smith-Njigba’s rising star and a stout defense, could give Seattle the edge in what has become one of the most compelling division races in the league.
As Seattle pushes toward the postseason, the stakes are high. The Seahawks must navigate injuries, maintain their momentum, and capitalize on their opportunities if they hope to secure the NFC West crown and make a deep playoff run.
