The Seahawks ranked top in the NFL in points allowed (17.2 per game) and third in points scored (28.4 per game) this season, a balance that has helped them rise quickly. That equilibrium would be at risk if Cross remains limited or Jones cannot contribute at full strength in the Super Bowl against New England.
The latest practice details, per The Athletic’s Michael-Shawn Dugar, show Cross sitting out Tuesday with a foot injury, while Jones logged a limited session after missing Wednesday with a chest issue. The status updates are generating mixed reactions among Seahawks fans as they edge toward kickoff.
Ernest Jones IV has been a disruptive playmaker, posting five interceptions (including a pick-six), seven passes defended, 60 solo tackles, and four tackles for loss. His run-defense reliability and ability to create turnovers would be valuable against a mobile Patriots offense led by Drake Maye and a backfield trio of TreVeyon Henderson, Ramondre Stevenson, and Maye’s own rushing options.
Jones embodies the pesky, turnover-focused mentality coach Mike Macdonald preaches, and his upgraded status could give Seattle an edge in the turnover battle the team views as pivotal to game plan success. Cross, meanwhile, remains a linchpin in Seattle’s protection schemes and run-blocking identity, with the veteran left tackle having dealt with hamstring, knee, and foot issues at various points.
Cross has missed three regular-season games due to the hamstring injury, and his playoff run has seen knee and foot challenges as well. When healthy, he has been relied upon to set the tone in the trenches, allowing 2 sacks and 24 total pressures over 450 pass-block snaps, according to Pro Football Focus.
With roughly a week and a half to get right before Super Bowl 60 in Santa Clara, more updates on Cross and Jones are expected as Seattle finalizes its game plan. Stay tuned for the latest on the Seahawks’ injury report and lineup projections ahead of kickoff.
