The Seattle Seahawks made the surprising decision to start sixth-round rookie Sataoa Laumea at right guard against the New York Jets in Week 13. Regular starter Anthony Bradford was recently placed on IR with an ankle injury, creating an opening. In a surprising decision, it was Laumea, not third-round rookie Christian Haynes, that was elevated into the starting lineup. After playing well in the victory over the Jets, the first-year contributor is preparing to start his second straight game versus the Arizona Cardinals in Week 14.
Mike Macdonald said the plan this week is to stick with Sataoa Laumea at RG.
Said both kick return jobs and punt return are still being sorted out this week. Said Dee Williams is still an option there.
— John Boyle (@johnpboyle) December 4, 2024
Laumea, a four-year starter for the Utah Utes, enjoyed a stellar NFL debut. Pro Football Focus credited Laumea with allowing two quarterback pressures and zero sacks. His nerves were also on display as he was whistled for two penalties. PFF assigned him a fairly harsh overall grade of 29.3. The eye test indicated he played fine, all things considered.
Starting quarterback Geno Smith was sacked on three occasions by the Jets. The Cardinals have been much better at rushing the passer than their talent on paper indicates. Jonathan Gannon’s aggressive squad has posted a ninth-best 34 sacks in 12 games despite a third-worst 30% pass-rush-win-rate (PRWR), per ESPN Stats & Info. Interior rusher Dante Stills leads the Cardinals in sacks (4.5). Stills could match up against Laumea on Sunday.
The Seahawks will likely evaluate the right guard position on a week-by-week basis. Laumea remains in the starting role for now. Haynes will continue attempting to dethrone him behind the scenes.
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