The Seattle Seahawks have announced that seven players, including their starting running back, will be inactive for their highly anticipated game against the New England Patriots. The absence of these players is expected to impact the Seahawks' performance as they aim to secure a victory at Gillette Stadium.

Among the inactive players are running back Kenneth Walker III, tackle George Fant, outside linebacker Uchenna Nwosu, tight end Pharaoh Brown, center Olu Oluwatimi, tackle Michael Jerrell, and guard Sataoa Laumea. This announcement confirms the likelihood of Walker and Fant's absence, as they carried doubtful injury designations into the matchup. Walker sustained an abdomen injury during Seattle's Week 1 win over Denver after recording over 100 rushing yards and a touchdown. Fant, on the other hand, left the same game early due to an undisclosed knee injury. Both players were unable to participate in practices throughout the week, further solidifying their unavailability for Sunday's game.

With Walker sidelined, Zach Charbonnet is expected to take on the majority of the workload at running back for the Seahawks. He will be supported by Kenny McIntosh and recently promoted George Holani as backup options. Meanwhile, Stone Forsythe, a four-year pro, is anticipated to start in place of Fant at right tackle. Forsythe proved his reliability in Week 1, playing all 54 offensive snaps after Fant's departure.

Additionally, Nwosu and Brown will be absent for the second consecutive week due to injuries sustained during the preseason. Nwosu is grappling with an MCL sprain, while Brown is still recovering from a foot injury. On the other hand, Oluwatimi, Jerrell, and Laumea were designated as healthy scratches, despite carrying no injury designations throughout the week.

The Patriots will also be missing five players for the matchup, with starting guard Sidy Sow being the most notable absence. Quarterback Joe Milton III, wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, tackle Demontrey Jacobs, and linebacker Curtis Jacobs will also be sidelined for New England.

The absence of these key players on both teams is sure to create a significant impact on the strategies and dynamics of the game. Both the Seahawks and the Patriots will need to adjust their game plans accordingly as they strive for victory on Sunday. Football enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting this thrilling showdown between two talented teams.