Lano Hill Out, 5 Seahawks Questionable for Week 7 Versus Ravens
Though listed as doubtful, coach Pete Carroll confirmed the Seahawks will be without reserve safety Lano Hill and could be missing several other key defenders in Sunday's upcoming matchup with the Ravens.
Hill, who has been nursing an elbow injury and did not practice at all this week, leaving his status in doubt for at least least a couple of weeks. Veteran safety Bradley McDougald has also been out due to back spasms since Tuesday and will be a game-time decision.
"He’s not right today. Couldn’t go today, yet." Carroll told reporters on Friday. "This is the kind of thing, it’s not an injury, it’s more of a condition. He might be able to pop out of this. We’ll see.”
With Hill sidelined and McDougald's status uncertain, second-round pick Marquise Blair could make his first career NFL start. The rookie out of Utah has played just 12 defensive snaps this season, but the organization holds the hard-hitting safety in high regard and this will be a prime opportunity for him to impress.
Carroll indicated whoever plays will need to be able to play both safety spots, but has no reservations about Blair replacing McDougald at strong safety if needed.
"I’m counting on him playing really good. He’s a runner and a hitter. He’s shown that. We don’t have any question about that. It’s just can he settle in and be comfortable with the calls and adjustments and all that stuff and just play good ball."
Aside from injury concerns in the secondary, the Seahawks could be without a key player or two along the defensive line as well. Defensive end Ziggy Ansah injured his ankle while recovering a fumble in Cleveland on Sunday and hasn't practiced this week, while Quinton Jefferson was limited on Thursday with an oblique issue.
Carroll didn't update Jefferson's status and called Ansah a game-time decision. Both were listed as questionable on the final injury report.
On the offensive side of the ball, tackle Duane Brown (bicep) still hasn't returned to practice, while guard D.J. Fluker returned to practice on Thursday. Carroll said Fluker is "looking pretty good" and Brown will be assessed up until game time.
If neither player can go for a second straight week, George Fant will replace Brown at left tackle and Jamarco Jones will stay in the lineup at right guard.
