Geno Smith may be available for next week after all.
After exiting the Seattle Seahawks’ Sunday Night Football contest vs. the Green Bay Packers with an apparent leg injury, Smith appeared to be done for at least next week, if not the season. However, there was an encouraging sign on Monday from head coach Mike Macdonald.
Macdonald told Seattle Sports radio in his weekly appearance that Smith “seemed optimistic this morning texting with him, so we’ve got that going for us.” X-rays revealed that Smith did not sustain any major damage, leaving room for hope regarding his potential availability for Week 16 vs. the Minnesota Vikings.
There are more tests to be done, but for now, the team is hopeful that Smith will be starting against the Vikings next week. If not, Seattle will be starting Sam Howell, which did not pan out well for the ‘Hawks last night.
Smith previously missed two starts last season with a groin injury, his only two missed starts during his time with Seattle. As the Seahawks enter the final stretch of the regular season, it will be imperative for Smith to be starting under center.
After the Minnesota game, Seattle will face the Chicago Bears (4-9) and the Los Angeles Rams (8-6) as they look to take the NFC West division title. Whether or not the Seahawks win those games will greatly depend on Smith’s health.