The Seattle Seahawks have had an incredible season so far, entering their Week 18 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers for the NFC West and the NFC's number 1 seed.
One of the highlights of the season has been the potent offense, and while Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been the focal point, the Seahawks had another wide receiver, rookie Tory Horton, who was a big contributor to start the year.
However, John Boyle of Seahawks.com shared comments from Mike Macdonald on Horton's status amid his shin injury, and it's not good news. Horton, the fun rookie wide receiver, is not expected back this season.
Tory Horton not expected back for Seattle this season
"(Mike Macdonald) said they got more clarity on Tory Horton's shin injury," Boyle shared, "and they're not expecting him back this season."
Horton isn't the Seahawks' number 1 wide receiver, nor is he even the number 2 with Cooper Kupp. After Rashid Shaheed was traded for, Horton was likely not even the team's number 3 wide receiver, either.
Despite not being a top wide receiver, he was still a solid contributor before his injury, and with the playoffs right around the corner, and Horton spending time on Injured Reserve, there was hope he could return for a Seahawks playoff run.
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But, as Macdonald shared in this press conference, the rookie wide receiver taken in the 5th round of the 2025 NFL Draft at 168th overall, won't be coming back this season.
Horton finishes his rookie season with 13 receptions for 161 yards and five touchdowns. His final game of the year was a strong Week 9 performance against the Washington Commanders, when he caught four passes for 48 yards and two touchdowns.
The Seahawks will miss his big-play ability this season, as both a receiver and a returner. Losing Horton stings, and while Shaheed can take over his role, having two such players would've helped make this Seahawks offense even more tricky to defend.
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