Seahawks promote a rookie and hint at Geno Smith’s status against the 49ers

When the Seahawks visit Levi’s Stadium on Sunday, the 49ers could face Drew Lock.

In light of Geno Smith’s midweek groin injury, which could keep him out of the key NFC West game, Seattle promoted practice squad quarterback Sean Mannion to the active roster on Saturday.

Today’s @Seahawks roster transactions: https://t.co/76nEkU6Oy6

— Seahawks PR (@seahawksPR) December 9, 2023

Mannion, 31, would be Drew Lock’s backup if Smith is unable to play. Lock, a former high second-round pick by Denver in 2019, has made two appearances but has yet to start a game in 2023. Lock completed four of twelve passes for 66 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception in those games.

Smith completed 18 of 27 throws for 180 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception in San Francisco’s 31-13 road win over Seattle on Thanksgiving. He was sacked six times for a 48-yard loss.

Smith’s probable injury comes at a bad moment for Seattle, which sorely needs a win to stay in the division battle rather than slipping to 6-7. The Seahawks will also be without linebacker Frank Clark (personal), as well as Jordyn Brooks (ankle), Jarran Reed (hamstring), and running backs Kenneth Walker III (oblique) and Zach Charbonnet (knee).

Along with Mannion, Seattle promoted linebacker Patrick O’Connell, presumably for depth in the absence of Clark and Brooks.

However, San Francisco will be missing several crucial players as well. Arik Armstead (foot, knee), Ross Dwelley (ankle), and wideout/returner Ray-Ray McCloud (rib) have all been ruled out.

Spencer Buford (knee), Elijah Mitchell (knee), and Darrell Luter Jr. (hamstring) are all questionable.