Seattle Seahawks head into a defining Week 18 showdown against the San Francisco 49ers with several injury-related storylines shaping their preparation.
With the NFC West title and the conference’s top seed on the line, Seattle’s health status is under close scrutiny as the team travels to the Bay Area ahead of Saturday night’s clash at Levi’s Stadium.
While Seahawks received encouraging news from practice during a short week, the final injury report confirms at least one significant absence and several situations worth monitoring.
Charles cross ruled out, playoff return still possible
The most impactful development is the continued absence of starting left tackle Charles Cross. Cross has been ruled out for a third consecutive game due to a hamstring injury, leaving Seattle without one of its most important offensive linemen for the regular-season finale.
Despite his unavailability this week, head coach Mike Macdonald expressed optimism about Cross’s recovery timeline.
“We’re optimistic for next week or the week after for Charles,” Macdonald said. “These guys have done a great job of getting back and working, but obviously Charles isn’t going to make it this week.”
Cross has appeared in just four games this season, and his return could be pivotal if Seattle Seahawks secure a playoff bye or advance as a wild card.
Josh Jones status remains uncertain on short week
With Cross sidelined, Josh Jones has handled starting duties at left tackle in recent weeks. However, Jones is listed as questionable after managing ankle and knee injuries. He was limited in practice on Friday following two days of non-participation.
“He's doing good,” Macdonald said. “He's progressing.”
When asked directly about Jones’ availability, Macdonald declined to offer certainty, adding, “It's questionable if he's going to play. He's progressing; the injury report is what it is. We'll stick with it right now.”
Secondary faces potential absence at safety
Safety Coby Bryant is listed as doubtful after missing last week’s game with a knee injury. While Bryant has shown improvement, Seattle Seahawks is preparing for the possibility of playing without him again.
“Coby's doing well,” Macdonald said. “He's done as much as he can this week, then we'll just keep going.”
If Bryant is unavailable, Ty Okada is expected to start. Seattle’s depth at safety has also been tested after D’Anthony Bell was claimed off waivers, potentially opening the door for additional adjustments.
Rashid Shaheed Cleared, Horton Unlikely to Return
Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed appears set to play after clearing concussion protocol and practicing fully.
“My understanding, it was a good exam right there at the game,” Macdonald said. “So I know he's confident on where he's at, feels great, and he's had a good week. I think he's in a good spot.”
Rookie receiver Tory Horton, however, is unlikely to return this season. Macdonald provided a sobering update on Horton’s shin injury, noting that the team is planning to finish the year without him while remaining confident about his long-term outlook.