As the Arizona Cardinals prepare to face off against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, both teams are dealing with key injuries that could significantly impact their lineups.
The Cardinals are especially affected in their secondary, while the Seahawks are managing injuries to some of their offensive and defensive players.
Cardinals’ Injury Concerns
The biggest news from the Cardinals’ camp is the continued absence of starting safety Jalen Thompson. Thompson has missed all practices this week due to an ankle injury sustained during practice before the Jets game. His absence for the second consecutive game leaves a hole in the secondary, with Rabbit Taylor-Demerson, who filled in for Thompson last week, also dealing with a back injury. Although Taylor-Demerson was listed on the injury report, he is not expected to miss the game and should start again at safety.
In a more positive development, defensive lineman Darius Robinson has participated fully in practice this week and is expected to make his return. Robinson has been sidelined since October 9 due to a calf injury but appears to be in a good headspace and ready to contribute. However, outside linebacker Xavier Thomas, who was added to the injury report on Friday with a back issue, is listed as questionable for the game.
The offensive line is also banged up, with right tackle Jonah Williams being listed as questionable. Williams, who was activated from the practice squad earlier this week, has practiced in a limited capacity. If he is unable to play, veteran Kelvin Beachum will continue filling in at right tackle.
Running back Emari Demercado (shoulder) and rookie safety Rabbit Taylor-Demerson (back) are both also listed as limited participants and questionable for the game.
Seahawks’ Injury Report
The Seahawks are dealing with some notable injuries of their own, including a question mark at tight end. Starting tight end Noah Fant is questionable with a groin injury, while backup Brady Russell has already been ruled out due to a foot injury. Additionally, wide receiver Laviska Shenault Jr. is listed as questionable with a back issue.
On the defensive side, Seattle will be without defensive end Leonard Williams, who is sidelined with a foot injury. The Seahawks are also working with safety Rayshawn Jenkins, who is recovering from a hand injury but is expected to return sooner rather than later. Jenkins’ return could provide a significant boost to the secondary as they face the Cardinals’ potent offense.
Looking Ahead
Both teams will need to rely on their depth and make quick adjustments as they prepare for Sunday’s game. For the Cardinals, the absence of Thompson and the uncertainty surrounding several key players on both sides of the ball is a major challenge. Meanwhile, the Seahawks are also dealing with injuries that could impact their offensive rhythm and defensive pressure. The outcome of this game may ultimately come down to which team can adapt more effectively to their injury-plagued roster.