The NFC Championship is here, but not everyone gets to play! As the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams gear up for a monumental clash, the official inactive lists reveal who will be watching from the sidelines. It's a crucial part of game day that often goes unnoticed, but it can significantly impact the outcome.
For the Seattle Seahawks, a few key players are notably absent. Rookie tight end Elijah Arroyo, despite being activated from injured reserve just days ago, won't be participating. This means the Seahawks will need to rely on their established offensive weapons. Also out for Seattle are rookie fullback Robbie Ouzts, who was nursing a neck injury and listed as questionable, and reserve running back Velus Jones Jr. This absence of Jones, who was elevated from the practice squad, alongside the season-ending torn ACL for Zach Charbonnet, leaves George Holani and Cam Akers as the primary backup running backs. It’s a testament to how injuries can reshape a team’s depth chart right before a championship game!
On a more positive note for Seattle, backup left tackle Josh Jones (knee, ankle) is active and ready to go, providing experienced depth behind Charles Cross, who had been dealing with a foot issue. However, rookie third-string left tackle Amari Kight (knee) is inactive, which could be a concern if Cross needs a breather. The Seahawks' other inactives include rookie third-string quarterback Jalen Milroe (who will serve as the emergency QB), offensive guard Christian Haynes, and rookie edge rusher Jared Ivey.
Turning to the Los Angeles Rams, there's good news regarding their Pro Bowl edge rusher Byron Young (knee). He's active and ready to make an impact, a significant boost considering he led the team with 12 sacks in the regular season. However, the Rams will be without a couple of familiar faces to Seahawks fans: cornerback Derion Kendrick and tight end Nick Vannett. Other Rams inactives include wide receiver Tutu Atwell, running back Jarquez Hunter, offensive lineman Beux Limmer, defensive end Larrell Murchison, and third-string quarterback Stetson Bennett IV, who will also be the emergency QB.
But here's where it gets interesting... The decision to keep certain players inactive, especially when others are playing through injuries, can sometimes spark debate. For instance, with Zach Charbonnet out, the running back situation for Seattle is particularly thin. Do you think the Seahawks made the right calls with their inactive list, or are there players who should have been cleared to play?
This NFC Championship showdown kicks off at 3:30 p.m., with extensive pregame coverage starting at noon on various radio stations and apps. It's going to be a game where every player on the field, and even those on the sidelines, plays a role in the narrative.
What are your thoughts on these inactive lists? Do you agree with the decisions made by either team? Let us know in the comments below – we'd love to hear your take!
