Seattle Seahawks vs. Philadelphia Eagles: DK Metcalf Among ‘3 to Watch’

As the Seattle Seahawks prepare to take on the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 15, All Seahawks highlights three players on whom fans may want to keep watch.

Author:
Mike D'Abate
Publish date:
Dec 18, 2023 2:20 PM EST

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Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks are hoping to return to the win column as they prepare to face off against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night in Week 15. Kickoff is set for 5:15 p.m. PT at Lumen Field.

Though many of Seattle’s most notables are expected to garner some attention during this upcoming matchup, here are three players that might raise an eyebrow when the Seahawks take the field against the Eagles.

Kenneth Walker III

With some degree of uncertainty still surrounding the quarterback position for Week 15, the Seahawks will likely look to the running game for some stability. Despite a challenging second season in the Emerald City, Kenneth Walker III has still compiled 634 yards on 157 carries with six touchdowns. Philadelphia enters this matchup raked sixth in run defense, allowing an average 94 rushing yards per game and eight rushing scores. Walker may find it difficult to navigate through a stout Eagles defensive front. However, expect Seattle to test their run defense, with Walker as its primary weapon.

DK Metcalf

While Metcalf is seldom — if ever — short of motivation to perform in prime time, he may have a bit extra in his step on Monday night. The Seahawks star receiver is going to be competing with his former Ole Miss teammate — and Eagles top wideout — A.J. Brown. Through 12 games this season, Seattle’s 2019 second-round selection (No. 64 overall) has compiled 864 yards on 51 catches with seven touchdowns. While the Eagles defense has been stout against the run, they have struggled when defending the pass. Philadelphia is currently allowing 259.9 passing yards per game, with 29 touchdowns. If Metcalf can shake his defenders early, look for a big night from the 26-year-old at Lumen Field.

Boye Mafe

With starting quarterback Jalen Hurts expected to be a game time decision due to an illness, the Eagles may be forced to start Marcus Mariota as their signal-caller against Seattle. Whether Hurts or Mariota gets the start, Mafe will be looking to make their life uncomfortable. The Seahawks’ 2022 second-rounder leads the team with seven sacks, while also having compiled 39 total tackles and one forced fumble. Like the Eagles, Seattle has also struggled against the pass, allowing 243.6 yards per game with 19 touchdowns. If they are intent on slowing Philadelphia’s progress through the air, Mafe must play a significant role in that process.