NFL News Roundup: Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker Downgraded; CB Steven Nelson to Visit Chiefs
The NFL news cycle continues to churn out significant developments as teams prepare for the upcoming season. Here is a roundup of the latest headlines:
Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker Downgraded
Seattle Seahawks rookie running back Kenneth Walker III has been downgraded to “doubtful” for Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos due to an ankle injury. Walker, who has been dealing with the issue since the preseason, missed practice on Thursday and Friday. His absence will be a major blow to the Seahawks’ offense, as he has emerged as their lead ball carrier in recent weeks.
With Walker out, veteran running back Rashaad Penny is expected to start. Penny has been solid in Walker’s absence, averaging 4.5 yards per carry and scoring two touchdowns in the last three games. However, the Seahawks may also give a significant role to third-string running back DeeJay Dallas, who has impressed in limited opportunities.
CB Steven Nelson to Visit Chiefs
Free agent cornerback Steven Nelson is scheduled to visit the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Nelson, who was released by the Philadelphia Eagles earlier this week, would provide a much-needed boost to the Chiefs’ secondary, which has struggled to generate turnovers this season.
Nelson has been a solid contributor throughout his career, recording 16 interceptions in eight NFL seasons. He would join a Chiefs defense that already features All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu and cornerback L’Jarius Sneed. If he signs with Kansas City, Nelson could help the Chiefs improve their pass defense and make a run at a Super Bowl title.
Other Notable News
- Bengals sign safety Vonn Bell: The Cincinnati Bengals have signed safety Vonn Bell to a three-year, $18 million contract. Bell, who was released by the New Orleans Saints, is a versatile defender who can play both safety and cornerback.
- Rams activate RB Cam Akers: The Los Angeles Rams have activated running back Cam Akers from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Akers, who tore his Achilles tendon last season, is expected to play a significant role in the Rams’ offense this year.
- Chargers place WR Keenan Allen on injured reserve: The Los Angeles Chargers have placed wide receiver Keenan Allen on injured reserve with a hamstring injury. Allen, who is one of the NFL’s most productive receivers, is expected to miss at least the next four games.
Injury Updates
Here is a list of other notable injuries around the NFL:
- Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (knee): Jackson is questionable for Sunday’s game against the New York Giants.
- Bills WR Stefon Diggs (oblique): Diggs is expected to play in Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans.
- Packers WR Allen Lazard (ankle): Lazard is questionable for Sunday’s game against the New York Jets.
- Vikings RB Dalvin Cook (shoulder): Cook is expected to miss multiple weeks with a dislocated shoulder.