Seattle Seahawks’ defense has been one of the most dominant forces in the NFL this season, even as the team battled through a string of key injuries. However, heading into their crucial Monday night clash against the Houston Texans, things appear to be trending upward for Pete Carroll’s squad — with one notable exception. Star linebacker Derick Hall will remain sidelined this week, though encouraging news about his recovery has emerged.
Seahawks defense nears full strength
Despite facing injury challenges throughout the first half of the season, the Seahawks’ defensive unit has continued to perform at an elite level. As Week 7 approaches, several key starters are set to return, including cornerbacks Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen, and safety Julian Love. Their comeback provides a significant boost to a defense that has consistently limited opposing offenses.
Additionally, edge rushers DeMarcus Lawrence and Uchenna Nwosu, both of whom dealt with earlier setbacks, are back to full strength and expected to play pivotal roles on Monday night. This resurgence in defensive health comes at a critical time as Seattle looks to keep pace in the fiercely competitive NFC West, where the Los Angeles Rams currently lead with a 5-2 record.
Derick Hall ruled out, but positive signs emerge
While much of Seattle’s roster is regaining its form, Derick Hall will not be part of the action this week. The standout linebacker, who’s been dealing with an oblique injury, was officially ruled out after failing to participate in practice all week. However, head coach Mike Macdonald provided a promising update that should ease concerns among Seahawks fans.
“He’s coming along, you know,” Macdonald said. “He’s not going to play in this game, but we should expect him back after the bye.”
This update offers a positive outlook for Seattle’s pass rush, which has benefited immensely from Hall’s athleticism and relentless pursuit of the quarterback. A second-round pick out of Auburn in the 2023 NFL Draft, Hall has developed into one of the team’s most impactful defensive players.
Hall’s impact on Seattle’s defense
Before his injury, Derick Hall had recorded 10 tackles and two sacks this season, showcasing the same intensity that defined his impressive sophomore campaign in 2024, when he posted 37 tackles, eight sacks, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses has been a cornerstone of Seattle’s defensive success.
Notably, this marks the first time in Hall’s young career that he has missed a game due to injury — a testament to his durability and work ethic since entering the league. His return after the bye will be vital as the Seahawks brace for a challenging stretch of games that includes matchups against the Commanders, Cardinals, Rams, Colts, Vikings, and Falcons.
Seattle eyes NFC West dominance
The Seahawks currently sit just half a game behind the Rams and 49ers in the NFC West standings. With their defense regaining strength and quarterback Sam Darnold’s chemistry with Jaxon Smith-Njigba improving weekly, Seattle remains a legitimate contender for the division crown and a top NFC playoff seed.
While Derick Hall’s absence will be felt against the Texans, the latest update suggests his return is on the horizon — a major relief for Seahawks fans hoping to see their defense firing on all cylinders as the postseason race intensifies.
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