The Seattle Seahawks took a hit to their special teams unit with the news that Neiko Thorpe was placed on the injured reserve with a sports hernia and will miss the rest of the season.
Thorpe’s presence has long been a big part of the punt and kick coverage teams for the Seahawks, and while they will miss him in the final three regular season games – he was the captain of the special teams after all – coach Pete Carroll did relay some good news on Wednesday about fellow core special teamer, fullback Nick Bellore.
“Nick’s got a chance to come back, he’s going to practice today,” Carroll said. “We’re thinking if he makes it through the week he should be able to play for us. That’s a big plus for us coming back. He’s been a real factor in teams, a real good factor for us. So, we’re looking forward to him coming back.”
Bellore has appeared in 11 games for Seattle this season, but he missed the last two weeks with a quad strain. He has one reception for 20 yards on the year, along with a fumble recovery on teams.
His veteran presence will help steady a young group of special teamers that will be without Thorpe for the rest of year.
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