Seahawks Exercising Patience with Quandre Diggs, Josh Gordon
Needing as much help they can get preparing to play the undefeated, NFC West-leading 49ers on Monday night, the Seahawks would love to have reinforcements coming in the form of safety Quandre Diggs and receiver Josh Gordon.
Speaking with the media on Wednesday, coach Pete Carroll remained non-committal about either Diggs or Gordon playing in Santa Clara, indicating he needed to see both players on the practice field first before making such judgments. But especially in the case of Diggs, he’s keeping his fingers crossed each one will be able to make his Seattle debut.
“I can’t tell you anything right now on the guys.” Carroll admitted. “I just know what they have looked like, but now we’re going to make this transition and see what happens. My expectations are not so high that we’re going to be disappointed if they can’t contribute and all that. But I’m hopeful they can be a part of it.”
Acquired via trade from the Lions last month, Diggs brings impressive versatility to the Seahawks in the secondary, boasting prior starting experience at slot cornerback and both safety positions. The 5-foot-9, 199-pound defender was named a Pro Bowl alternate after producing 78 tackles and three interceptions in 2018.
It remains to be seen where Seattle will use Diggs, who has spent the past few weeks trying to learn a new playbook while being sidelined by a hamstring injury. He recently had to have blood drained from the muscle, but he appears to finally be closing in on his return.
“We’re counting on him practicing all week this week.” Carroll said, adding. “I’m hopeful that he can contribute and help us this week. He has had the benefit of a couple weeks of studying, he’s been out there for the walkthroughs and all that kind of stuff, but he hasn’t had a full speed step on the field, so today’s the first chance.”
Gordon, who was claimed off waivers last Friday, finds himself in a similar situation. Like Diggs, he’s expected to suit up for practice on Thursday, providing the first opportunity for Carroll and his coaching staff to see how he looks on the field away from a walkthrough session.
The 28-year old Gordon arrived in Seattle earlier this week and has been working diligently trying to grasp a new offensive with his sights set on being able to play against the 49ers. While Carroll isn’t setting any expectations for his newest receiver, he also expects he’ll adjust quickly.
“He’s a smart football guy, he’s gonna get it. It’s not going to take him very long. Just need to see him practice.”
Despite all of the unknowns surrounding Seattle’s newest additions, Carroll can’t wait for the chance to get a close look at both players in coming days. If all goes according to plan, Diggs and Gordon could have an excellent chance to make an impact for their new team on Monday.
“I think those two guys are in very similar modes, but Q [Diggs] has a couple weeks on him in terms of preparation and all that. Josh has been scrambling to catch up, doing overtime and all that. I’m anxious, can’t wait to see what the guys look like.”
