The Seattle Seahawks will be without two of their key defensive players for their season opener against the Atlanta Falcons. On Wednesday, head coach Pete Carroll announced that both safety Jamal Adams and cornerback Devon Witherspoon are out with injuries.
Adams, who was acquired in a trade with the New York Jets this offseason, is dealing with a groin injury. He was limited in practice earlier this week and was unable to participate in the team’s final practice before the game. Carroll said that Adams is making progress but won’t be ready for the opener.
Witherspoon, who was signed as a free agent this offseason, is dealing with a hamstring injury. He has been limited in practice all week and will not be available for the game.
The absences of Adams and Witherspoon will be a big blow to the Seahawks’ defense. Adams is one of the best safeties in the league and was expected to be a major contributor this season. Witherspoon is a veteran cornerback who was expected to provide depth and experience in the secondary.
The Seahawks will have to rely on other players to step up in their absence. Quandre Diggs is expected to start in place of Adams at safety, while Tre Flowers will likely start at cornerback in place of Witherspoon.
It remains to be seen how long Adams and Witherspoon will be out, but it’s clear that the Seahawks will have to find a way to win without two of their key defensive players. The team will have to hope that their replacements can step up and fill the void left by Adams and Witherspoon.
