The Seattle Seahawks appear likely to have to face J.J. Watt and the Houston Texans on Sunday without three starters along their offensive line.
Right tackle Breno Giacomini and center Max Unger are both listed as doubtful to play in Houston. Left tackle Russell Okung is already out as he was placed on the short-term injured reserve list with a sprained toe ligament last week. It leaves the Seahawks line substantially short-handed against the league’s second-ranked defense.
Both Giacomini and Unger sustained injuries last week against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Giacomini left the game in the second quarter after a knee issue worsened during the game. Unger has a triceps injury that he managed to play through last week. He had been checked out by the training staff but ultimately remained in the game with the rest of the starters.
If Giacomini and Unger can’t play, Lemuel Jeanpierre is expected to get the start at center with rookie Michael Bowie getting the call at right tackle. Head coach Pete Carroll said they were being cautious with both players and will evaluate them before the game Sunday before ultimately making a final decision. Giacomini did not practice this week while Unger was limited the last two days.
“When (our players) are getting banged up, we’re trying to really give them every chance to get back and utilize our depth and if that’s what this calls for then we’re ready to do that,” Carroll said. “We’re not going to force guys back out there until they’re ready to play.”
Jeanpierre started five games for Seattle in 2011 at center and right guard. Bowie’s first game action came in place of Giacomini last week.