Seahawks head coach speaks out after multiple defenders go down with injury
Seattle Seahawks are nursing a banged-up secondary heading into Week 2 and will likely be without starting cornerback Devon Witherspoon and first-round safety Nick Emmanwori.
Witherspoon played every snap in Week 1 but didn’t practice this week due to a knee injury. He’s listed as doubtful on Seattle’s injury report and seems very unlikely to take the field. The injury is not thought to be serious, said head coach Mike Macdonald.
Mike Macdonald comments on the injuries
Emmanwori only played four snaps in his NFL debut before going down with a high-ankle sprain. He didn’t participate this week, either, and was ruled out for Sunday’s game. Macdonald added that Emmanwori will avoid injured reserve for right now after mentioning the possibility earlier in the week.
Witherspoon’s absence this weekend will force another Seahawks defender to step up in the slot, a decision that will be further complicated with Emmanwori sidelined. He could have been another option at nickel or lined up at safety with Julian Love in the slot; instead, Seattle will have to flip an outside cornerback into the slot or put inexperienced third-year safety Ty Okada on the field.
Here are some other secondary injury updates from around the NFL
Seattle will also be facing a depleted secondary on Sunday with Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring) joining DeShon Elliott (knee) on the sidelines. First-round defensive tackle Derrick Harmon will also have to wait another week before his NFL debut as he recovers from a knee injury.
Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones confirmed that cornerback DaRon Bland would miss two to three weeks with a foot sprain. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer added that an IR placement is not expected at this time.
Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez was ruled out for a second week in a row, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The 2023 first-round pick still hasn’t returned to practice since July 28 due to a hamstring injury.
The Bears will get cornerback Jaylon Johnson back in Week 2 as he finished the week without an injury designation for Sunday’s game against the Lions.
BREAKING: Minnesota Vikings Face Backlash for Introducing Lead Male Cheerleader at Today’s Game
The Minnesota Vikings have sparked a major controversy today after officially unveiling their lead male cheerleader during the team's highly anticipated game, igniting a fierce backlash that has taken over social media and the stands. The decision, intended to promote inclusivity and diversity, has instead resulted in a firestorm of criticism, with many fans questioning the move and some expressing outright disapproval.
The Vikings, known for their progressive approach in various areas, took the bold step of introducing their first male lead cheerleader to the public, a move meant to reflect broader changes in the world of cheerleading. However, what was expected to be a moment of celebration quickly turned into a battleground between those supporting the idea of gender inclusivity and others who believe the tradition of cheerleading in sports should remain untouched. The backlash was swift and loud, with some fans booing the cheerleader’s performance, while others took to social media to voice their frustration.
Fake Quote from Vikings Head Coach Kevin O'Connell: “We’re always looking for ways to challenge the status quo and bring new energy to the game. Our lead male cheerleader is incredibly talented and has worked hard to earn his spot on the squad. We stand by our decision to embrace diversity and inclusivity, both on and off the field.”
While some have lauded the Vikings for pushing boundaries and showing a commitment to inclusivity in a historically female-dominated role, many feel this change was driven more by a desire for attention rather than a genuine desire to promote equality. Critics have taken to platforms like Twitter and Instagram, calling the move a “publicity stunt” and arguing that it diminishes the tradition of cheerleading, which has been a staple of NFL entertainment for decades.
However, defenders of the decision argue that cheerleading, like any other role, should be open to people of all genders and backgrounds. They point out that the move is part of a broader push to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to contribute, no matter their gender.
As the debate rages on, the Vikings face an uphill battle in defending their decision. Will this move push the NFL into a new era of inclusivity, or will it backfire, leaving the Vikings to reconsider their approach? Fans are eager to see how the team will navigate the fallout, with the pressure mounting both inside and outside the stadium.
