Seattle Seahawks spark excitement with Cam Akers signing and Quandre Diggs’ unexpected return
The Seattle Seahawks made headlines on Wednesday with a series of significant roster moves, highlighted by the addition of veteran running back Cam Akers and the surprising return of three-time Pro Bowl safety Quandre Diggs. Akers, who had been a standout in previous seasons, was signed directly to the 53-man roster, while Diggs, a familiar face in Seattle from 2019 to 2023, joined the practice squad amid a wave of injuries affecting the Seahawks’ secondary.
Roster Changes and Promotions
In a flurry of activity, the Seahawks also promoted linebacker Patrick O’Connell and cornerback Shaquill Griffin to the active roster. To accommodate these changes, the team waived cornerback Derion Kendrick, who had made a notable impact earlier in the season, and placed linebacker Chazz Surratt on injured reserve. Additionally, running back Myles Gaskin and undrafted rookie wide receiver Jimmy Holiday from Louisiana Tech were added to the practice squad. Tackle Logan Brown was released to make space for these new additions.
In an encouraging development for the defensive line, rookie defensive lineman Rylie Mills was designated to return to practice, opening a 21-day window for activation to the 53-man roster. Mills, a fifth-round pick, has been sidelined since tearing his ACL during his final season at Notre Dame in 2024.
Impact of Offensive Moves
The signing of Akers raises eyebrows, yet it aligns with the Seahawks’ need for depth following an injury to running back George Holani. By bringing Akers onto the active roster, Seattle is securing a reliable backup to lead backs Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet, especially with Akers potentially seeing action on Sunday. The former second-round pick in 2020 has had a tumultuous journey, changing teams six times since 2023. His most productive season came in 2022 with the Los Angeles Rams, where he amassed 786 yards and seven touchdowns over 15 games. However, multiple Achilles injuries have hindered his once-promising career.
Gaskin’s presence on the practice squad has been fluctuating this season, and he now serves as an additional layer of insurance for the Seahawks’ backfield. The coaching staff likely opted for two backup running backs given Walker’s recent glute injury, which had him listed on the injury report during Week 12. Holiday’s addition adds intrigue to the receiving corps, especially considering his modest college production. With Dareke Young and Tory Horton currently on injured reserve, the Seahawks now have three receivers on the practice squad, hoping to bolster their passing game.
Defensive Moves and Diggs’ Return
The return of Diggs is a move that many anticipated, given his history as a fan favorite during his five seasons in Seattle. His productivity and leadership were significant during his tenure, making his return a welcome sight for fans and teammates alike. The split between Diggs and the Seahawks, particularly with Jamal Adams, was rocky after the 2023 season, but it appears that both sides have mended fences.
Diggs’ stint with the Tennessee Titans did not go as planned, leading to his return to Seattle. He may be elevated for game day, especially with Okada’s injury, creating an opportunity for him to contribute immediately. D’Anthony Bell is expected to start in Week 13, with Diggs poised to step in as a vital backup. At 31 years old, the key question remains: can Diggs maintain the high level of performance that once defined his career?
As the Seahawks gear up for their upcoming matchup, the excitement surrounding these roster moves reflects a team determined to bolster its chances for success amidst the challenges of the season.
