The Steelers will play the Seahawks on Sunday and could be missing two key players, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Elandon Roberts, but the Seahawks got a worrying sign on Thursday, too.
Seahawks star wide receiver DK Metcalf missed practice with a back injury. That was a new injury, as Metcalf was not listed on the injury report on Wednesday. Joining him in not practicing were starting running back Kenneth Walker, starting linebacker Jordyn Brooks, and key defensive line players Mario Edwards and Dre’Mont Jones. In a crucial game, all of those injuries remain important ones to pay attention to throughout the week, but none more so than Metcalf.
It would not be the end of the world if he is out for the Seahawks. They have Tyler Lockett and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, along with a receiving tight end in Noah Fant. But it’s hard to replace the speed that Metcalf brings, and if he does not play, that frees up Joey Porter Jr. to follow Lockett around, which is significant for a secondary that is looking to be depleted for the second straight week at safety.
The Steelers will have their hands full either way, and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin brought attention to a guy like Fant, who could see more usage if Metcalf is out.
“They have got three quality guys. They have got a quality tight end,” Austin said. “You can’t forget about (Noah) Fant coming across the middle and working there. He’s like a fourth receiver for them. So, we have our work cut out for us. I don’t think it’s going to be one particular guy.”
Pete Carroll often speaks to the media two days before the game, so Metcalf’s status is likely to be updated at that point. This could just be a rest day for Metcalf, but it’s important to monitor.