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The third and final practice report of the week has been released, providing game statuses for players who were limited or absent from practice. The Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos, both dealing with a short week, now have a clearer picture of who will be available for their upcoming Thursday night clash.
Seattle Seahawks: Relatively Healthy Despite Short Week
Aside from long-term injuries to players like Jadarian Price, Anthony Bradford, and Zach Charbonnet (knee, still out), the Seahawks are in decent shape. Chazz Surratt (calf) is out, but he is primarily a special teams contributor. The main concern is Drake Thomas (ankle), who did not practice and will miss tomorrow's game. In his absence, the team will turn to Tyrice Knight, which is a downgrade but not a disaster. No other players were listed as questionable. Beau Stephens (shoulder) and George Holani (ribs, knee) were full participants and are ready to play. Irv Charles (knee) was removed from the report after being signed to the practice squad in a roster move involving Velus Jones Jr., but he is expected to be elevated for tomorrow's game to make his Seattle debut. Jaxon Smith-Njigba (ankle) was a full participant today, easing concerns after limited practices earlier in the week. Drew Lock (right forearm) and, more importantly, Leonard Williams (ankle) have no game status despite limited participation and should be available as needed on Thursday night.
Denver Broncos: Secondary Hit Hard
If the Seahawks cannot effectively throw the ball against the Broncos given their current health situation, then there may be little hope for them. As anticipated, Patrick Surtain (ankle) and Talanoa Hufanga (ankle) are both out. That means Denver's best cornerback (and one of the best in the league) and best safety will be unavailable. The bad news continues: Riley Moss (ribs) is questionable, indicating that while he is more likely than not to play, he is clearly not at full strength. Denver is highly motivated to put him on the field regardless because they would be helpless at boundary cornerback without him, but that does not mean he is in good shape to play. Brandon Jones (foot), Ben Powers (biceps), and Saivion Jones (shoulder) are all good to go. However, all of this is on top of missing Pat Bryant and Jonah Coleman, who are on injured reserve, and Jonathan Cooper, who is suspended. This is a Broncos team that is well below full strength no matter how you look at it. It is up to Seattle to take advantage.
Key Analysis
The Seahawks appear to be in a much better position health-wise than the Broncos, who will be without their top cornerback and safety. Seattle's offense, led by Geno Smith, should have opportunities to exploit Denver's depleted secondary. However, the Broncos still have a formidable pass rush, so the Seahawks will need to protect Smith and establish the run game to keep the defense honest. On the other side, Denver's offense will face a Seattle defense that is relatively healthy and should be able to contain the Broncos' playmakers. Special teams could also play a crucial role, especially with Seattle missing Chazz Surratt. Overall, the injury report favors Seattle, but they must execute on the field to secure a win.