Seattle Seahawks: Russell Okung to Miss Arizona Cardinals Clash
By Paul Taylor
Seattle Seahawks: Russell Okung to Miss Arizona Cardinals Clash
Unsurprisingly, a lot of people were concerned when Seattle Seahawks left tackle Russell Okung did not return for the second half of Sunday’s 17-7 win over the San Francisco 49ers. Okung was injured as a result of being on the wrong end of a devastating block by Ray McDonald, which happened after Russell Wilson threw an interception at the end of the first half.
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It turned out that Okung was spitting blood when he left the field, resulting in his having to go to hospital with an apparent chest injury. He was likely frustrated, which would explain why the 27-year old shoved a trainer who went to talk to him after the incident.
Fortunately, the 2010 sixth overall NFL draft pick was released from hospital the same night. He was diagnosed with a bruised lung.
This obviously leads to the question of how long Okung will be out of action? Considering how much the Seahawks offense has struggled to find any consistency of late, they can ill-afford to lose one of their most prominent linemen.
Oct 6, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll (R) celebrates with tackle Russell Okung (76) after scoring a touchdown against the Washington Redskins during the second half at FedEx Field. The Seahawks won 27-17. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Head coach Pete Carroll addressed the concerns Monday morning on ESPN Seattle: “He’s pretty sore now. A bruised lung is what he’s got. (He) got picked off pretty good so (it’s) going to be a little bit for him.”
Carroll went on to say Okung was feeling much better after he spoke to him Sunday night: “It’s going to be a week or so here (before he returns to action).”
This is a big blow for the Seahawks, as they prepare for the upcoming clash with the Arizona Cardinals. Seattle has to win to continue controlling their pursuit of homefield advantage throughout the playoffs.
With Okung out, Alvin Bailey will take over the left tackle duties. The second year player filled in admirably against the 49ers, helping the Seahawks overcome a 7-3 halftime deficit.