Headed into a primetime matchup in week one, who will the Seahawks and Broncos be missing due to injury, and which players will be back to compete?
Tonight, the Seattle Seahawks will take on Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos in their first game of the season on Monday Night Football. With the Broncos traveling to Lumen Field to take on the Hawks, there will be an electric environment provided by the 12s in the season opener. We’ve already discussed our keys to the Seahawks pulling off an upset and what we will be watching for, but it’s time to address another important aspect of the game: who’s in and who’s out.
Seattle Seahawks Injury Report
Out: Alton Robinson (DE) and Tyler Ott (LS)
We knew before this week that Alton Robinson would likely miss this game after he sustained a knee injury in the final preseason game of 2022 against the Cowboys, but this was confirmed by the official report. Coach Pete Carroll said Alton may require knee surgery, so I expect Robinson to be sitting out at least three games to start the season. Tyler Ott had a shoulder issue this week in practice, and unfortunately, he will require surgery as well. Carson Tinker was elevated from the practice squad ahead of the game tonight to fill in for Ott.
Doubtful: Artie Burns (CB)
Burns is listed as doubtful with a groin injury for this game, and with this designation, I don’t expect him to play. He may have started in place of Tariq Woolen if he were healthy, but I’m excited to see Woolen go into action so early.
Questionable: Kenneth Walker III (RB) and Damien Lewis (OG)
If I had a choice here, I would choose to keep both of these players off the field for tonight’s game. Throughout the preseason, we’ve seen that Travis Homer and DeeJay Dallas provide good running back depth, and I would not want to risk hurting Walker III’s groin any further. I see him as the future true running back one for the Seahawks, and I think it’s wise to rest him tonight. As for Damien Lewis, I’ll be happy to see what Phil Haynes has in the tank in what could be a big opportunity for him to prove himself as the number two guard on this roster (over Gabe Jackson).
Denver Broncos Injury Report
Out: Josey Jewell (ILB)
While we are all skeptical of Geno Smith’s ability to drive the ball down the field or complete his short-area passes to weapons like DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, one thing we all hope the Seahawks are able to do tonight is run the ball and run it effectively. The absence of Jewell in the Broncos front seven may be a positive factor in the Seattle run game. He’s a key player and the Broncos will likely fill in with Alex Singleton.
Questionable: Randy Gregory (DE), KJ Hamler (WR), and Billy Turner (RT)
If Gregory misses the game, it will take a ton of pressure off of rookie tackles Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas in pass coverage, as the Broncos will be down to Bradley Chubb from their starting pass-rush group. KJ Hamler will play a big role this season as the Broncos wide receiver three after Tim Patrick was lost to an ACL injury, and Seth Williams will have to fill in if Hamler is unable to go. Billy Turner is set to be the Broncos starting right tackle, and Calvin Anderson or Cameron Fleming will take his spot if he’s out. This would present an additional opportunity for Seahawks Darrell Taylor, Uchenna Nwosu and Boye Mafe to eat.
If you or anyone you know may be interested in applying for a contributing writer position with Hawks Huddle, check out the Opportunities site for more information. We are actively hiring contributing writers, and we need your help to put out more great content!
