Sam Darnold is ready to play despite a recent oblique injury. He was listed as questionable, but will suit up for the Seahawks’ divisional playoff against the 49ers.
Darnold felt discomfort in his oblique during Thursday’s practice. Afterward, he expressed confidence, saying, “I feel good. In routes, I just felt a little something. I didn’t want to push it.” He focused on rehabilitation and believes he’ll be all set for Saturday.
Coach Mike Macdonald echoed that optimism, stating he was “really optimistic” about Darnold’s ability to compete.
If trouble arises, rookie quarterback Jalen Milroe will dress as an emergency option, though he’s been inactive for most of the season. The only player sidelined due to injury is tackle Josh Jones, who has a knee issue. He was starting for Charles Cross, who returns after missing three games with a hamstring injury. If needed, rookie Amari Kight will step in as backup.
Alongside Cross, the Seahawks also welcome back safety Coby Bryant, who missed the last two regular-season games with a knee issue.
On the 49ers’ side, receiver Ricky Pearsall is back in action after sitting out the last two games. Notably, left tackle Trent Williams returns after missing the prior week. However, they will be without tight end George Kittle, who is out for the season with an Achilles tear.
In today’s NFL, injuries can significantly shape game strategy. According to the NFL Injury Report, teams have increasingly turned to depth players to mitigate the impact of injuries. A 2023 study highlighted that teams with effective backup players tend to perform better in high-pressure situations like playoffs. This adds an extra layer of tension for all involved, emphasizing the importance of player readiness.
With both teams making strategic moves to bolster their lineups, fans are in for an exciting showdown. As the game approaches, social media buzzes with discussions about these player returns, reflecting how pivotal their involvement can be in determining the outcome.
Here’s a quick look at the inactive lists for both teams:
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