The Seattle Seahawks listed SAM linebacker Mychal Kendricks as doubtful for their Week 14 matchup with the Rams in Los Angeles on Sunday.
Seattle’s reliance on the 4-3 base defense is in part thanks to their faith in Kendricks’ ability in pass coverage and as a blitzer. If they are without him, coach Pete Carroll admitted the team will probably rely more on their nickel package.
While he would not say which player would be employed in that role, it’s expected that rookie Ugo Amadi will get a chance against LA’s speedy slot receiver, Cooper Kupp.
However, the Seahawks will still run a hefty amount of their base defense, meaning rookie Cody Barton could get a big opportunity to show what he is capable of in Kendricks’ absence.
“Cody’s a good player and we’re anxious to see him contribute,” Carroll said on Friday. “He played quite a bit last week, more than he has been. He’s ready to go.”
Barton was a third round pick out of Utah in the 2019 NFL Draft. He was a middle linebacker in college, but has worked hard to learn all three linebacker spots in Seattle, so that he can serve as a valuable backup at any spot when called upon.
“Cody is a particularly diligent worker,” Carroll continued. “Smart kid. Plays all three spots. He’s as well versed a guy coming in as you can hope for, for a young guy. We really don’t have any hesitation in trusting that he can play.”
So while the Seahawks will likely rely on the nickel package, fans will still get a healthy dose of Barton on Sunday night – assuming Kendricks gets the night off.
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