Seahawks welcome back AJ Barner and Cooper Kupp for pivotal Cardinals showdown
The Seattle Seahawks are gearing up for a crucial Week 10 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, buoyed by some encouraging injury news. Key contributors tight end AJ Barner and wide receiver Cooper Kupp, who were both listed as questionable leading up to the game, are active and ready to make an impact.
Injury Updates and Inactives
As the Seahawks prepare for their encounter with the Cardinals, they will be without a few players due to injuries. Notably, wide receiver Jake Bobo will miss the game because of a calf injury that sidelined him throughout the week. Bobo has only managed two catches for 20 yards this season.
Quarterback Jalen Milroe will serve as the emergency third-string quarterback, with Sam Darnold taking the starting role and Drew Lock stepping in as the backup should any injuries arise.
Wide receiver Tory Horton is another notable absence. Dealing with groin and shin injuries, he came into the weekend doubtful after missing the last two practices. In his absence, the Seahawks will lean on Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Cooper Kupp, and the newly acquired Rashid Shaheed, who was traded from the New Orleans Saints just before the deadline.
Reflecting on Horton’s contributions, Smith-Njigba emphasized the importance of stepping up when called upon. “We preach next man up, you know, step up. Make a play when your number is called,” he said. “Tory did that, and that’s what we expect from him. He’s a big-time player, and he’s going to make the most of his opportunity. We’re going to need him throughout the whole season, so I’m excited. He had a great game today.”
Other Inactive Players
The Seahawks also have a few other players who will be inactive against the Cardinals:
Cornerback Josh Jobe: Still in concussion protocol after suffering an injury in Week 9 against the Washington Commanders.
Linebacker Ernest Jones IV: Out for the first time this season due to a knee injury.
Offensive Lineman Mason Richman: A rookie seventh-round pick from Iowa, he has appeared in only two games this season and will be a healthy scratch for the third consecutive week.
Linebacker Jared Ivey: An undrafted player from Ole Miss, Ivey has been inactive once again, having only made the gameday roster twice this season.
Looking Ahead
With the return of Barner and Kupp, the Seahawks’ offense is poised for a significant boost as they face off against the Cardinals. The stage is set for a compelling contest, and the Seahawks are eager to capitalize on their newfound health as they strive to secure a vital victory.
