Seattle releases veteran CB Blackmon as part of roster cuts

SEATTLE (AP) The Seattle Seahawks released veteran cornerback Will Blackmon and placed backup running back Robert Turbin on injured reserve Saturday as part of the team's roster cuts to reach the 53-man limit.

That doesn't mean the work is done for the Seahawks, who have been very active in the past in making moves to acquire players after teams make their final cuts. There is at least one known move to come when running back Fred Jackson signs his one-year contract with the team. The sides agreed to terms on the deal Friday and it's expected to be finalized by the end of the weekend.

Blackmon was a surprise decision as it appeared he was in line to be the Seahawks' starting nickel cornerback. The Seahawks kept Marcus Burley and rookie Tye Smith instead, with one likely filling that role at the start of the season. The position may eventually be Jeremy Lane's, but he is on the physically unable to perform list to start the season as he continues to recover from arm and knee injuries suffered in the Super Bowl.

In an attempt to add additional secondary depth, the Seahawks acquired Kelcie McCray from Kansas City in exchange for a 2016 draft pick, expected to be a late-round selection. McCray started his career with Miami in 2012 as an undrafted rookie free agent and also spent time with Tampa Bay and the Chiefs. He has appeared in 17 career games.

The move of placing Turbin on injured reserve was also part of the reason for sought out Jackson. Turbin suffered a significant high-ankle sprain in Seattle's third preseason game against San Diego and his return was unknown.

Also done for the season is defensive tackle Jesse Williams, placed on the non-football illness list as he continues to recover from kidney cancer surgery. Williams wrote on Instagram on Saturday that Seattle doesn't deserve him playing at ''80 percent of my health,'' and that he is going to focus on his health and family.

Among Seattle's other cuts were 2015 draft picks safety Ryan Murphy, defensive lineman Obum Gwacham and offensive tackle Terry Poole. Also released was linebacker Eric Pinkins, a 2014 draft pick by the Seahawks who was trying to make the transition from defensive back to linebacker. The release of Pinkins is an indication that special teams standout and backup linebacker Mike Morgan may be ready for the start of the regular season after suffering a hamstring injury.

Seattle's wide receiver situation also became settled after Kevin Smith and Kasen Williams were released despite strong training camp showings. The Seahawks kept six wide receivers, including Super Bowl star Chris Matthews and B.J. Daniels, who is moving to the position from quarterback.

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