The Seattle Seahawks are facing a critical divisional game versus the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. There are legitimate availability questions surrounding both return specialists, Dee Williams and Laviska Shenault Jr. Thankfully, head coach Mike Macdonald recently said that both playmakers could be available on Sunday. Williams and Shenault Jr. are considered day to day.
Of the return specialists, Macdonald said Dee Williams’ ankle injury doesn’t appear serious and that Laviska Shenaukt (oblique) should practice this week. He called both day-to-day.
— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) November 20, 2024
Williams exited Sunday’s Week 11 victory over the San Francisco 49ers with an ankle injury. Seattle’s medical team swiftly ruled Williams out. That’s typically a bad sign, but the former University of Tennessee standout appears to have avoided a major setback.
Shenault is nursing an oblique injury. He did not return any kickoffs against the 49ers. Third-string running back Kenny McIntosh handled kickoff duties, returning one attempt for 15 yards. The Seahawks also didn’t return any punts in Week 11.
Shenault has returned 14 kicks this campaign for 449 yards. He’s averaging an explosive 32.1 yards per return, including a 97-yard touchdown. Shenault is among the best kickoff returners in the league.
Williams has returned 13 punts this season for 96 yards. He’s been sure-handed, averaging 7.4 yards per punt return. Williams has called 16 fair catches.
The Seahawks would prefer to have both return specialists available versus the Cardinals. Shenault and Williams are potential game changers. Macdonald will discuss their game-day designations on Friday.
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