As the Seattle Seahawks gear up for their Super Bowl LX showdown with the New England Patriots, they’ll do so without rookie fullback Robbie Ouzts and linebacker Chazz Surratt, both of whom are inactive for Sunday’s game.
Ouzts was the only Seahawk listed with an injury designation heading into the weekend, dealing with a neck issue that ultimately kept him sidelined. While he’s not a featured piece in the offense, Ouzts’ physicality and blocking presence out of the backfield had earned him a niche role in Seattle’s game plan throughout the season. His absence could subtly impact short-yardage and goal-line packages.
Surratt, meanwhile, had been designated to return from injured reserve back on January 13, but never made it back to the active roster. A key contributor on special teams, his absence leaves a gap in one of the more overlooked-but critical-phases of the game.
The rest of Seattle’s inactives include quarterback Jalen Milroe, offensive lineman Mason Richman, tight end Nick Kallerup, nose tackle Brandon Pili, and linebacker Jared Ivey. Milroe is set to be the team’s emergency third quarterback, available only under the NFL’s new rules that allow for a third QB to be activated in case of injury to the first two.
On the Patriots’ side, they’ll be relieved to have both Harold Landry and Robert Spillane active after each entered the weekend listed as questionable. Landry, one of New England’s most consistent pass-rushing threats, has racked up 8.5 sacks over 17 games this season, including the playoffs. His ability to get after the quarterback will be key in trying to disrupt Geno Smith and Seattle’s rhythm.
Spillane brings a different kind of impact-he’s been a tackling machine all year, posting 111 total stops, four tackles for loss, and a pair of interceptions. His presence in the middle of the defense gives New England a steady hand against both the run and the pass.
Defensive lineman Joshua Farmer, who had been dealing with a hamstring issue, is also active for the Patriots, bolstering their depth up front.
Among the Patriots’ inactives is wide receiver Efton Chism III, a local product out of Monroe High School and Eastern Washington University. While not a key contributor on offense, his journey to the Super Bowl roster was a notable storyline in New England’s locker room.
Also inactive are quarterback Tommy Devito-who will serve as the emergency third QB-tight end C.J. Dippre, offensive tackle Marcus Bryant, guard Caedan Wallace, outside linebacker Bradyn Swinson, and cornerback Kobee Minor.
With both teams now set and rosters locked in, the stage is officially set. The Patriots get a boost with their defensive playmakers ready to go, while the Seahawks will need to adjust without a couple of their depth pieces. In a game where every inch matters, even the smallest personnel shifts can ripple into something bigger.