RENTON, Wash. — The Seattle Seahawks will be without Marshawn Lynch and Paul Richardson and will be missing some depth along their defensive line for Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings.
While Lynch’s absence was expected following abdominal surgery last week, head coach Pete Carroll had been optimistic about Richardson’s chances to play. Instead, Richardson was unable to practice all week and was officially ruled out on Friday.
“His hamstring just isn’t coming back,” Carroll said. “We’re just disappointed that he wasn’t able to continue to get back and it’s just lingered a little bit.”
Carroll said it’s unlikely Richardson will be back next week and didn’t rule out the possibility of making a roster move, which could mean placing Richardson on injured reserve.
The team will also be without defensive end Demarcus Dobbs and defensive tackle Jordan Hill. Dobbs suffered a concussion last week against the Pittsburgh Steelers while Hill injured his toe.
Their absence will mean A.J. Francis will get his first action with the team since being claimed off waivers from the Miami Dolphins three weeks ago.
Dobbs and Hill are rotational players for Seattle who serve mainly as interior pass rushers. Francis is more of a run-stopper, which could be useful against Adrian Peterson this week.
Fullback Will Tukuafu is questionable to play after suffering a concussion as well. He’s been a limited participant in practice the last two days. With Tukuafu also able to play along the defensive line, his availability for Sunday’s game could be important for Seattle with Dobbs and Hill out.
Cornerback Marcus Burley is questionable after suffering a minor ankle sprain against the Steelers. Carroll said they believe Burley will be able to play on Sunday.
