### Seahawks Face Major Setback as Charles Cross Ruled Out for Rams Game The Seattle Seahawks are grappling with a significant injury blow as left tackle Charles Cross has been ruled out for their crucial Week 16 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams due to a hamstring injury. This absence is particularly concerning as it not only affects the Seahawks' offensive line but also their chances of securing the NFC West title and the No. 1 seed in the playoffs. Cross, a key player since being drafted in the top 10 in 2022, has been a reliable protector for quarterback Sam Darnold, making this injury a critical issue for the team's playoff aspirations. The Seahawks will need to adjust their strategy and rely on backup Josh Jones to fill the gap left by Cross's absence [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/seahawks-rams-week-16-injury-011827741.html, https://www.espn.ph/nfl/story/_/id/47340380/seahawks-lt-cross-ruled-wr-adams-doubtful-rams]. ### Breakdown of the Situation: Injury Impact and Team Adjustments 1. **Injury Details**: - Charles Cross has been ruled out for multiple weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained during the previous game against the Rams [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/seahawks-rule-charles-cross-thursday-001127729.html, https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-seahawks-news/158004/seahawks-vs-rams-nfl-week-16-inactives-charles-cross-davante-adams-both-out]. 2. **Team Adjustments**: - Josh Jones will start in place of Cross, marking his first start since the 2023 season [https://apnews.com/article/seahawks-cross-hamstring-injury-3bae7cf167b0ecf23b75772d9c0579d0, https://www.fox13seattle.com/sports/seattle-seahawks-rule-out-charles-cross-jason-myers-named-special-teams-player-week]. 3. **Playoff Implications**: - The Seahawks' hopes for the NFC West title and a top playoff seed are jeopardized by Cross's absence, as he has been a cornerstone of their offensive line [https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/seattle-seahawks/news/charles-cross-injury-update-bad-news-seahawks-nfc-west-no-1-seed/870d96e722422cee4b5f4abf]. ### Supporting Evidence: Cross's Performance and Team Statistics - **Cross's Performance**: - Since being drafted, Cross has started 62 of 65 games and allowed only two sacks in 423 pass-blocking snaps this season, showcasing his importance to the Seahawks' offensive line [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/rams_prepare_for_seahawks_front_shakeup_after_latest_injury_report/s1_17260_43219359]. - **Backup Performance**: - Josh Jones has played in 11 games this season, but this will be a significant test as he steps into a starting role against a formidable Rams defense [https://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-seahawks-news/158004/seahawks-vs-rams-nfl-week-16-inactives-charles-cross-davante-adams-both-out]. ### Conclusion: Navigating Challenges Ahead In summary, the Seattle Seahawks are facing a critical challenge as they prepare for their Week 16 game against the Rams without left tackle Charles Cross. The implications of this injury extend beyond just one game, potentially affecting their playoff positioning. 1. **Immediate Impact**: Cross's absence is a significant loss for the Seahawks' offensive line, necessitating adjustments in their game plan. 2. **Backup Strategy**: Josh Jones will need to step up in a crucial role, which could influence the outcome of the game. 3. **Long-term Consequences**: The Seahawks' aspirations for the NFC West title and playoff success are now at risk, highlighting the importance of Cross's recovery and return to the lineup. The Seahawks must navigate these challenges effectively to maintain their competitive edge in the playoff race [https://www.columbian.com/news/2025/dec/17/hamstring-injury-rules-out-seahawks-tackle-charles-cross-for-key-matchup-with-rams].