The Seattle Seahawks’ offensive line is undergoing significant changes as the team looks to bolster pass protection and open up running lanes. In a series of roster moves on Wednesday, the Seahawks activated promising young right tackle Abraham Lucas from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Simultaneously, they placed veteran tackle George Fant on injured reserve.
Lucas Returns, Sparking Optimism
Abraham Lucas, a third-year pro out of Washington State, is taking a major step towards making his long-awaited return from offseason knee surgery. By activating Lucas from the PUP list, the Seahawks are signaling that the 25-year-old is nearing game readiness.
As a rookie in 2022, Lucas displayed immense potential, ranking 17th among all NFL tackles in pass block win rate. His return could provide a significant boost to a Seahawks offensive line that has struggled mightily this season, surrendering 28 sacks through nine games.
“The best version of Abe is going to give us the best version of our offensive line,” said Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald. “From what I saw today, he looked really good. Hopefully that’s this week.”
– Mike Macdonald, Seattle Seahawks head coach
Fant Lands on IR Again
To make room for Lucas on the 53-man roster, Seattle placed veteran tackle George Fant on injured reserve. The 32-year-old Fant, signed in the offseason as insurance for Lucas, has endured an injury-plagued campaign.
Fant initially hurt his knee in Week 1, landing on IR. He returned in Week 9, only to re-injure the same knee 17 snaps into the game. This latest setback will sideline him for at least four more contests.
Seahawks’ Tackle Carousel Continues
Lucas and Fant are just the latest names in Seattle’s revolving door at right tackle this season:
- Week 1: Fant starts, injured after 13 snaps
- Weeks 2-6: Stone Forsythe starts 5 games before hand injury
- Weeks 7-8: Rookie Michael Jarrell starts
- Week 9: Fant returns, re-injures knee after 17 plays; Jarrell finishes game
This instability, combined with issues at right guard, has Seattle’s offensive line ranked just 27th in pass block win rate (53.4%). If Lucas can solidify the right tackle spot, it would go a long way towards helping quarterback Drew Lock and the Seahawks’ passing attack.
The Road Ahead
While Lucas’ activation is encouraging, his status for Sunday’s clash with the San Francisco 49ers remains uncertain. Coach Macdonald sounded optimistic about his chances of suiting up, but stressed the need to cross “certain milestones and hurdles” before greenlighting him.
Whenever Lucas does take the field, expectations will be high. As a rookie, he flashed the talent that made him a third-round draft choice, using his 6’6″, 315-pound frame and impressive footwork to stymie pass rushers.
“Lucas has all the tools to be a high-end starting right tackle,” an NFC scout told ESPN. “He’s got the size, strength and technique. If he’s fully healthy, he could really solidify that spot for Seattle.”
– NFC scout
The Seahawks’ season hangs in the balance at 3-6, with the team still hoping a late surge could propel them into the expanded playoff field. Solidifying the right side of the offensive line is crucial to those aspirations.
If Abraham Lucas can pick up where he left off as a rookie and stabilize the right tackle position, it would be a huge step in the right direction for these Seahawks. For an offense brimming with playmakers like receivers DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, an upgraded front five could be the key to unlocking their full potential.
